Jacob Zuma’s MK Party, the official opposition, has backed Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara, breaking from Zuma’s former party’s position regarding the right to self-determination of the Sahrawi people.
The ANC splinter party, through a new policy document, has also called for South Africa to restore trade and diplomatic relations with the North African country based on sovereignty, territorial integrity and African unity.
The shift comes as a notable geopolitical pivot as the ANC has consistently supported the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination. The MK Party’s position could signal a realignment that could carry broader diplomatic implications.
The party's stance could also be viewed as a push to distinguish itself from the ANC on foreign policy as it seeks to broaden its appeal before the 2026 local government elections, where it will contest the municipal polls for the first time.
Relations between South Africa and Morocco have been historically strained over its continued occupation of Western Sahara, the only African state yet to achieve independence.
The ANC maintains strong ties with the Polisario Front, the liberation movement advocating for Sahrawi independence, reinforcing Pretoria’s long-standing support for self-determination in the disputed region.
The MK Party said Morocco’s claim over the disputed territory was based on historical legitimacy.
“Our party recognises the historical and legal context that underpins Morocco’s claim to Western Sahara. The region has long been part of Morocco, before and after colonial occupation of the Spanish, and Morocco’s sovereignty over it should be respected,” the MK Party document says.
“Morocco’s proposal for autonomy in Western Sahara must be looked into in the context of the unification of African people and the principles of self-determination. Morocco’s proposal allows significant local governance by the Sahrawi people, while ensuring Morocco retains its sovereignty over the region.
“This approach could offer a balanced path forward that promotes stability, peace and development in a region long plagued by conflict.”
The party said South Africa and Morocco share a responsibility to defend the interests of the African continent, adding it is in the best interests of both countries to restore relations.
“Taking into account the micro/macroeconomic similarities that exist between our two countries, South Africa being the largest investor in the continent, and with Morocco’s progressive economic footprint in the continent as the second largest investor, could together unlock enormous trade potential, especially under the African Continental Free Trade Area.”
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