I have a Volvo Penta KAMD44P-B

Year 2000.

I’m have this random issue that comes up.

I’ll turn “on” my main battery perko switch.

Then I’ll turn the key to the “ignitionl position on and then hold down the active station button.

The alarm sounds and it’s ready to start.

I turn the key to the start position and absolutely nothing happens. Not a click or a single sound but the alarm goes off.

I turn the key back to the “ignition” position.

I walk over to the main “perko” battery switch. Turn it from “on” to “off” and then back to “on”. The instant the switch is turned back to the “on” position the engine turns over and starts. This happens without even touching the key. I’m ok with it, because at least it starts that way. But I’d rather use the key.
Why is this happening?

Battery is new and fully charge, main battery switch is also functioning properly.

The only other odd thing that is happening, is the panel stays powered after the main battery switch is turned off.

It only goes off after I disconnect the alternator wire off battery. It’s like the power is back feeding through the alternator to the panel.

To make matters worse. I can return to the boat a week later, and start it normally with the key.

Driving me crazy!
Please help.