les membres du Conseil national sahraoui réitèrent leur revendication de liberté et d’indépendance
Summary of Recent Discussions on Sahrawi Independence
On Saturday, members of the Sahrawi National Council (CNS) convened with Staffan De Mistura, the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Western Sahara, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to freedom, independence, and the completion of sovereignty over the entire territory of the Sahrawi Republic. This meeting included the participation of Mrs. Obeida Hadhiya, the head of the CNS Social Affairs Commission, and representatives from seven different CNS committees.
During the gathering, the CNS reiterated its determination to reclaim freedom and sovereignty, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the Sahrawi people due to continued Moroccan occupation. Member Mohamed Smail stated that this meeting served as a platform for conveying critical messages to De Mistura. One key point made was the designation of the Polisario Front as the sole legitimate representative of the Sahrawi people until their sovereignty is fully restored.
In addition to advocating for autonomy, CNS members called for the UN mission in Western Sahara (MINURSO) to include the protection of human rights within occupied territories. This concern stems from the repression and suffering endured by the Sahrawi population under Moroccan rule. Member Mohamed El-Amine Ahmed expressed a desire for the UN to expedite arrangements for a referendum that would empower the Sahrawi people to express their will and determine their own future.
De Mistura’s response was described as "positive," indicating a willingness to engage with the issues raised and work toward a resolution. It was noted that he intends to present findings and potential solutions to the UN Security Council by mid-April.
Additionally, the president of the Sahrawi Consultative Council, Mohamed Lamine Ahmed, emphasized the right of the Sahrawi people to continue their struggle for independence. He condemned the violations experienced by the Sahrawi population in occupied areas, particularly the young individuals who suffer various forms of aggression and unjust court verdicts for peacefully protesting.
CNS members held the United Nations responsible for the grave situation in Western Sahara, questioning the role of the organization in facilitating a fair and transparent referendum process. Following their discussions, De Mistura is scheduled to meet with Brahim Ghali, the president of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (RASD) and secretary-general of the Polisario Front.
This series of meetings underscores the ongoing dispute over Western Sahara, marked by calls for greater support from the international community to address the humanitarian concerns of the Sahrawi people and recognize their right to self-determination. The situation remains complex, with the UN’s role critical in seeking an amicable resolution to the conflict and fulfilling the aspirations of the Sahrawi people for independence.
