CAF President Patrice Motsepe has insisted that the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will proceed as planned in Morocco, despite ongoing anti-government protests that have swept across the North African nation for over a week.

Thousands of young Moroccans have taken to the streets for nine consecutive nights, demanding an end to corruption and calling for sweeping government reforms.

Demonstrators have expressed frustration over social inequality, unemployment, and inadequate access to healthcare and educational services.

The unrest has raised questions about Morocco’s readiness to host Africa’s premier football tournament, which is set to feature countries competing from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, across nine venues.

Speaking in Kinshasa during a gathering of African football leaders, Confederation of African Football (CAF) president Patrice Motsepe moved swiftly to allay concerns.

“We (CAF) are absolutely confident the AFCON will go ahead as planned,” Motsepe said.

He added, “Morocco is plan A, Morocco is plan B, and Morocco is plan C.”

The South African billionaire businessman emphasised that CAF will continue to collaborate closely with Moroccan authorities and citizens to ensure a successful tournament.

“CAF will co-operate and work with the government and all the citizens of Morocco to host the most successful AFCON in history,” he added.

Morocco last hosted the Africa Cup of Nations in 1988, when the competition featured just eight nations. The country was also set to host the 2015 edition but withdrew amid Ebola virus fears.

The 2025 tournament is expected to feature Africa’s biggest football stars, including Mohamed Salah of Egypt and Achraf Hakimi of Morocco, alongside Nigeria’s Super Eagles and defending champions Ivory Coast.