ALGIERS- Dzair Tube has obtained exclusive information shedding light on the remarkable tenure of Mohamed Raouraoua, who served as the influential head of the Algerian Football Federation and left an indelible mark on African football during his three consecutive terms from 2004 to 2017. Raouraoua, the first Algerian to become a member of the FIFA Executive Committee, experienced both triumphs and setbacks, making him a central figure in the history of Algerian and African football.
During his first term from 2004 to 2008, Raouraoua faced formidable competition from influential personalities across Africa. Despite the challenges posed by figures such as Egyptian Hany Abo Rida, Tunisian Federal President Slim Chiboub, Moroccan Said Belkhayat, and Muhammad Bouchouicha, a close friend of former Libyan President Muammar Gaddafi, Raouraoua emerged victorious and secured his membership in the Executive Committee of CAF.
His second term from 2008 to 2012 witnessed another significant achievement as Raouraoua was reelected as a member of the executive office of the African Commission, triumphing over his Libyan rival Djamel al-Jaafari. Despite facing health challenges, Raouraoua’s dedication and support propelled him to a landslide victory with 53 votes against a solitary dissenting vote.
The third term from 2012 to 2017 further cemented Raouraoua’s influence as he secured reelection to CAF membership unopposed. Additionally, he achieved a groundbreaking milestone by winning a seat in the Executive Committee of FIFA, becoming the first Algerian to attain such a position. This achievement was particularly notable given the strong contenders in the race, including South African Danny Jordan, Ivorian Federal President Jacques Anouma, and the President of the Zambian Federation, Kalusha Bwalya.
However, in 2017, Raouraoua faced compelling reasons leading to the loss of his membership in the CAF Executive Committee. He experienced harassment from the ruling gang, under the orders of Said Bouteflika. Despite receiving instructions from former minister Ould Ali not to compete for CAF membership, Raouraoua defied the pressure and participated independently, even without government support. In contrast, his competitor Fouzi Lekjaa, representing Morocco, traveled with a large delegation and employed various means, including offering gifts, money, and other incentives, to secure votes at the General Assembly in Ethiopia.
Djahid Abdelwahab Zefizef, Raouraoua’ successor, failed to match his predecessor’s accomplishments, despite substantial support from higher authorities and significant investments in sports infrastructure. Zefizef’s defeat at the hands of his Libyan rival Shalmani underscored the unique stature Raouraoua held in African football.
Raouraoua’s contributions extend beyond Algerian football. His pivotal role in FIFA’s enactment of the “Bahamas” law, allowing dual-national players to represent their countries of origin, had a profound impact on African football. This legislation enhanced the talent pool available to African teams, enabling them to benefit from high-level players with dual nationality playing in European leagues. The Algerian national team, boasting a majority of dual-nationals, including standout players like Houssem Aouar and the Italian star of Rome, has been a testament to Raouraoua’s vision and influence.
Mohamed Raouraoua, the last Algerian to hold membership in the CAF Executive Committee, left an enduring legacy despite the setbacks faced in subsequent administrations. His achievements not only transformed Algerian football but also shaped the course of African football as a whole. Raouraoua’s pioneering efforts and unwavering commitment make him an iconic figure in the annals of Algerian and African football history.
The waning influence of the Algerian Federation in recent years poses a significant threat to Algerian football, necessitating immediate and drastic changes within the “FAF.” The declining stature of the federation highlights the urgent need for the current officials to step down, making way for new leaders who can effectively restore the lost prestige of Algerian football. It is imperative that those who assume positions of authority prioritize the revival and revitalization of the sport, recognizing the crucial role it plays in the nation’s identity and the aspirations of its people. Only through bold and decisive action can the Algerian Football Federation reclaim its former glory and secure a promising future for Algerian football.
