Zuma's Morocco visit sparks controversy over Western Sahara

Former President Jacob Zuma's recent visit to Morocco has sparked controversy and divided opinions, with many calling it a "betrayal" of Western Sahara.

The discreet visit on July 15 came to light through social media posts from Moroccan officials and was confirmed by Youssef Amrani, the Moroccan ambassador to the US, on X.

During the trip, Zuma was photographed with Magasela Mzobe, Head of Presidency of the MK Party, and Moroccan officials, both South African and Moroccan flags prominently displayed.

This visit is seen as a significant shift regarding 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

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 and 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.

“It dishonours the legacy of the late Muammar Gaddafi, a key defender of the Sahrawi cause, which is a recognised 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,” read the statement.

In response, Dr Magasela Mzobe, head of the presidency in the MK Party, said nothing stops 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.

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

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