The Moroccan Association for Citizenship and Human Rights has called on the government to legally classify the separatist group “Polisario Front” as a terrorist organization. The association issued a statement urging not only Morocco but also the African Union to reconsider its stance on the group, advocating for the annulment of the so-called “Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic” as a member state.
This appeal comes after the United Nations Security Council renewed the mandate of the MINURSO mission, reaffirming its support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative as a resolution for the Western Sahara conflict. The association noted that this decision highlights a global consensus on Morocco’s proposal as a viable solution, considering it a diplomatic victory for Morocco and a step toward greater stability in the region.
The association emphasized that classifying the Polisario as a terrorist group aligns with international efforts to combat organizations that incite instability and violence. It also argued that withdrawing the African Union’s recognition of the “Sahrawi Republic” would reflect the organization’s commitment to upholding UN Security Council resolutions and promoting lasting peace.
The association further alleged that rising tensions in the region are driven by Algeria’s continued support for the Polisario, describing this support as interference in Morocco’s internal affairs. According to the statement, the association urged the international community to put pressure on Algeria to cease its backing of separatist movements. The group argued that Algeria’s actions not only destabilize Morocco but also pose a threat to regional peace and security.
In its statement, the association highlighted the importance of the Security Council’s recent resolution on the Western Sahara. The resolution is seen as a pivotal development that bolsters Morocco’s position and the validity of its autonomy proposal, which the Moroccan government argues is the most practical and peaceful solution for the Western Sahara conflict. The association reiterated that international recognition of this proposal reflects widespread support for Morocco’s efforts to resolve the conflict through diplomacy and mutual respect.
In calling for the designation of the Polisario as a terrorist organization, the association aims to encourage a firmer stance against groups that employ coercive and destabilizing tactics. It also underscored the potential security risks posed by the group’s activities, particularly if left unchecked. Morocco’s classification of the Polisario as a terrorist entity, the association argues, would send a clear signal to the international community about the threat it perceives from the group’s ongoing operations.
The association’s appeal is part of a broader campaign to strengthen Morocco’s diplomatic efforts and enhance its stance on the Western Sahara conflict within both regional and global spheres.
This article is originally published on fr.hibapress.com