Former South African President Jacob Zuma’s recent visit to Morocco has ignited controversy and divided opinions, with some describing it as a “betrayal” of the Western Sahara. 

The visit, which occurred quietly on July 15th, was brought to light through social media posts from Moroccan officials and was confirmed by Youssef Amrani, Moroccan ambassador to the United States, who posted on X.

During his visit, Zuma was photographed alongside the MK Party’s Head of Presidency, Magasela Mzobe, and Moroccan officials, with both South African and Moroccan flags displayed. 

The visit has been interpreted as a significant shift, particularly in relation to the Western Sahara conflict. 

Critics argue that Zuma’s support for Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara marks a betrayal of the African Union’s (AU) long-standing position advocating for Sahrawi self-determination.

Floyd Shivambu, former Secretary General of the MK Party, responded sharply, describing Zuma’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty as “opportunistic” and a departure from the anti-colonial and revolutionary principles that underpin many liberation movements on the continent.

“This move contradicts our history of supporting oppressed peoples,” Shivambu said in a social media post.

The controversy deepened when Fikile Mbalula, the ANC’s secretary general, publicly called Zuma a “sellout” during a televised interview and reiterated his disapproval on social media. 

The Pan African Forum Ltd & Associates chair, Dr. David Nyekorach-Matsanga, issued a formal condemnation on Sunday, describing Zuma’s stance as a “betrayal of African solidarity” and a violation of the AU’s principles.

“Endorsing this occupation equates to endorsing colonialism,” read the statement..

“It dishonours the legacy of the late Muammar Gaddafi, a key defender of the Sahrawi cause, which is a recognized member state of the African Union, and its right to self-determination is protected under Article 20 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”

He stated that Morocco’s continued occupation of Western Sahara is a breach of international law and AU principles.

“Zuma’s personal or party-level position does not override the AU’s position nor reflect the will of South Africans. From Libya to now, Zuma’s history shows a pattern of trading principles for favour.

“The AU Commission must reaffirm its official position on Western Sahara. The ANC must publicly distance itself from Zuma’s stance. Pan-African organisations, civil society, and student movements must reject this betrayal,” read the statement.

In response, Dr Magasela Mzobe, head of the presidency in the MK Party, said nothing stops Jacob Zuma from visiting other African countries.

“President Zuma and the MKP officials will soon take MK members and supporters into confidence about this historic visit to Morocco. We don’t owe the ANC, DA, or any organisation answers but MKP members. The ANC doesn’t speak on behalf of SA on international matters.”

Meanwhile, Zuma’s previous support for the Sahrawi cause as President of South Africa was well-documented, including meetings with Sahrawi leader Brahim Ghali. 

Critics now question whether this visit signals a significant policy shift within the MK party or a personal diplomatic move.

Political analyst Joe Mhlanga expressed concern about the internal discord within the MK Party, highlighting ongoing internal struggles and leadership issues. 

“The party appears to lack a clear direction; this flip-flopping on key issues like Western Sahara undermines their credibility and raises questions about their stance on international justice.”

“This is not different from supporting Israel over Palestine, because history reminds us that Morocco is the oppressor who continues to illegally occupy the Western Sahara, which is still under occupation,” said Mhlanga.

The MK Party released a policy position earlier this week explaining that they believe South Africa and the Kingdom of Morocco should be committed to strengthening their bilateral relations, grounded in shared principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and African unity.

“The MK Party’s identity is deeply rooted in the historic struggle for liberation and dignity in South Africa. Similarly, Morocco’s history is marked by its resistance to colonial domination and its determined pursuit of national unity.

“Both nations were shaped by their anti-colonial struggles, South Africa from apartheid and Morocco from French and Spanish rule.’

thabo.makwakwa@inl.co.za

IOL Politics

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