Western Sahara has been historically linked to Morocco for centuries

First, Western Sahara has been historically linked to Morocco for centuries. The region has been part of the Moroccan cultural, political, and social fabric dating back to the 10th century. Moroccan dynasties such as the Almoravids and Almohads exerted control over these territories long before the arrival of European colonial powers. Furthermore, imperial treaties with European countries, including Spain and the United States, acknowledged Moroccan sovereignty over the region as early as the 18th and 19th centuries. These treaties often involved Morocco guaranteeing protection for European vessels near the Western Saharan coast. 

Second, Morocco was the first to officially bring the Western Sahara issue to the United Nations in 1964, positioning the matter within the framework of decolonization. The Green March of 1975, a peaceful initiative involving over 350,000 Moroccan citizens, was a symbolic and peaceful effort by Morocco to reclaim the territory from Spain. This event was a critical moment in Morocco’s decolonization efforts, carried out in accordance with international principles and under the scrutiny of the United Nations. 

In response to the ANC’s (@MYANC) statement regarding #Morocco’s presence in #Western_Sahara, several historical and geopolitical points can be raised to provide clarity and correct misconceptions.

First, Western Sahara has been historically linked to Morocco for centuries. The… pic.twitter.com/qZO1u1XCtk

— Lahcen Haddad, PhD (@Lahcenhaddad) October 17, 2024

Since then, Morocco has heavily invested in the development of Western Sahara, with substantial economic, social, and infrastructure projects that have significantly raised the quality of life for Sahrawis. Local elected councils govern the region in collaboration with Moroccan national institutions, representing the Sahrawi population’s interests far more effectively than any external political actors. 

It’s also essential to reflect on Morocco’s support for the ANC during the apartheid era. When the ANC was struggling against apartheid, Morocco stood by the ANC, offering training for its fighters, financial aid, and diplomatic support. Nelson Mandela himself recognized Morocco’s assistance, stating that Morocco was on the right side of history during the most challenging period for the ANC. 

It would be a historical mistake for the ANC to now adopt a position that dismisses the complexity and historical reality of the Western Sahara issue. The ANC should remember its own struggle for sovereignty and justice and avoid aligning itself with a narrative that neglects the rights and development of the Sahrawi populations under Moroccan governance. Instead, the ANC should engage in dialogue with Morocco, recognizing the development and stability that Morocco has brought to Western Sahara.