“Whose Interests? An Investigation into the Relationship Between Sports Directorate Staff and Martial Arts Federations”
Questions about the motives behind the Sports Directorate’s obstruction of martial arts activities: Hidden interests or restrictive policies?
As Moroccan youth strive to enhance their athletic skills and engage in various activities, serious questions arise about the policies implemented by the Ministry of Sports and the Sports Directorate. It appears that these policies focus on obstructing sports activities in certain areas, particularly in martial arts.
Under the implementation of Law No. 30.09 related to physical education and sports, the ministry and its staff seem to use it as a tool to restrict the organization of sports activities rather than facilitate them. The recent circular issued by the ministry concerning the licensing of sports activities and events shows how the interests of 11 specialized martial arts federations are being prioritized at the expense of the diversity and development of sports in Morocco.
What Do Sports Directorate Staff Gain?
Questions continue to arise about the motives behind these policies: Are there personal or commercial interests linked to some staff members of the Sports Directorate? Are deals being made or relationships managed between these federations and certain staff members and delegations, contributing to the dominance of these federations and restricting competition? These questions cannot be ignored, especially given the repeated complaints that other sports activities are facilitated while martial arts activities face significant obstacles.
Discrimination Between Team Sports and Martial Arts
Unlike team sports such as football and basketball, which are allowed to organize their events and championships outdoors and in halls with minimal local authority interference, martial arts events face unjustified obstacles. Why are these activities banned and subjected to immediate interventions from local authorities and administrative offices? Why are communications and interventions made at the last minute, particularly on weekends, leaving little room for reviewing decisions or filing complaints?
The Required Reform
Such questions cast doubt on the integrity and transparency of the current policies and underscore the urgent need for a review of sports activity regulations in Morocco. Statements by Minister of National Education, Primary Education, and Sports, Chakib Benmoussa, indicating that the old sports law is outdated, clearly highlight the need for genuine reforms. The ministry should seriously consider addressing these challenges and revisiting current policies to ensure fairness and transparency in organizing sports activities, serving the interests of all athletes and the sports community as a whole.
