L’AARASD condamne l’expulsion par le Maroc de militants européens venus soutenir les détenus politiques sahraouis
Summary of the Event Regarding the "March for Freedom"
Background
The Association of Friends of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (AARASD) has publicly condemned the expulsion of at least 14 European activists and politicians from Morocco. They were in the country to participate in the "March for Freedom," a demonstration aimed at expressing solidarity with Sahrawi political prisoners.
Details of the Expulsion
On Monday, the AARASD reported that the Moroccan authorities expelled these individuals, which included four elected officials from France and Spain. The expulsion occurred as the activists arrived in Tangier via ferry from Spain. Witnesses described acts of violence from Moroccan police, indicating a heavy police presence that obstructed the delegation’s entry into Morocco.
The AARASD expressed confusion and disappointment over the situation. They had hoped that the delegates would be allowed to peacefully enter the country, meet with the families of political prisoners in Rabat, and approach Kenitra prison to convey messages and support to the incarcerated Sahrawis.
Public Response from AARASD
In their statement, the AARASD criticized the Moroccan authorities for their actions, highlighting the absence of any formal notification regarding the expulsions. They described the handling of the situation as scandalous, particularly emphasizing Claude Mangin-Asfari, a French activist whose husband has been detained in Morocco for over five years. Upon her return to Spain, Mangin-Asfari conveyed her pain regarding the expulsion but also expressed pride in the solidarity shown by those involved in the march.
The association denounced the Moroccan government’s ongoing repression of dissenting views and labeled their actions as a clear violation of international law and UN resolutions. AARASD stressed that these expulsions signified the Moroccan state’s deep-rooted hostility toward any expression that challenges their nationalist narrative, particularly in the context of the Western Sahara conflict.
Looking Forward
Despite the setback, the AARASD reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the release of Sahrawi political prisoners and the continued fight for human rights. They pledged to keep their campaign active under new forms, broadly in line with international human rights standards and the right to decolonization.
About the "March for Freedom"
The "March for Freedom" began on March 30 and is intended to conclude on May 31 at the Kenitra prison, where numerous Sahrawi political prisoners are unjustly held. This ambitious initiative covers approximately 3,000 kilometers, traversing multiple cities in France and Spain. It has included various activities such as roundtables, conferences, and exhibitions to raise awareness about the Sahrawi cause, underscoring the plight of those wrongfully imprisoned.
Concluding Remarks
The recent expulsion of European activists serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by those advocating for Sahrawi rights. AARASD’s unwavering commitment and plans for future activism highlight the persistence of their cause, emphasizing the need for international attention and intervention in matters of human rights in the region.
