President of Olympique Akbou Stands Firm for National Unity, Refutes Sympathy Allegations by Terrorist Ferhat Mhenni
BY: Dr. Hana Saada
ALGIERS- The Olympique Akbou football club, established in 1936, has long been a symbol of sporting excellence and community spirit in Algeria. Founded with the principles of fair play and athleticism, the club has a rich history intertwined with the country’s struggle for independence.
Originally named “Olympique” to honor the fundamental rules of the game, the club, like many others of its time, also served as a breeding ground for activism and nationalism. Several players, driven by their commitment to the national cause, abandoned the stadiums to join the ranks of the revolutionaries during the Algerian War of Independence.
Following independence, the club underwent a symbolic transformation, rebranding itself as the Union Sportive Populaire d’Akbou ‘Popular Sports Union of Akbou’ (USPA). The addition of “union” and “popular” to its name reflected its status as a national institution, open to players from all corners of Algeria.
Despite not competing at the highest levels, USPA has made significant strides in recent years. Four consecutive promotions have positioned the club on the brink of joining the elite ranks of Algerian football. Its success has garnered admiration from supporters across the country, as evidenced by the diverse turnout at recent matches.
However, amidst these achievements, the club found itself embroiled in controversy when separatist figure Ferhat Mhenni claimed USPA and its supporters sympathized with his movement. President Karim Taqa swiftly denounced these allegations, emphasizing the club’s apolitical stance and its commitment to national unity.
“We strongly condemn such statements, which only reflect the views of their author,” stated President Taqa. “Our club is purely sporting, devoid of any political affiliations.”
He further reiterated the club’s recognition of its Amazigh heritage while emphasizing its primary identity as Algerian. “We do not deny our Amazigh roots, but above all, we are Algerians and proud to be so,” he affirmed.
President Taqa concluded by warning against any attempts to exploit the club for political purposes, asserting the club’s right to pursue legal action against any malicious actors. “We forbid anyone from using the club for political ends,” he declared.
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