Sahrawis Won’t Relinquish Self-Determination Right, Says Cooperation Minister
The Sahrawi Minister of Cooperation, Fatma El Mehdi, reaffirmed that the Sahrawi people will not relinquish their right to self-determination and independence under any circumstances. She emphasized their commitment to continuing the struggle until the Sahrawi state attains full sovereignty over its entire territory.
In statements to Spanish media, El Mehdi stated that the Sahrawi people reject any proposed settlement that clearly violates international legitimacy, particularly the “colonial plan” advanced by the Moroccan occupation and sought to be imposed through force.
The only viable solution is to hold a referendum on self-determination, emphasizing that only the Sahrawi people have the right to decide their own future, she continued After 50 years of colonization, the Sahrawi people are well aware of the cost of freedom. Their steadfast resilience over half a century demonstrates an unwavering commitment to their rights, El Mehdi added.
The official further highlighted the strong international solidarity with the Sahrawi cause, citing support from heads of state, political parties, and trade unions, all of whom champion the freedom and independence of the Sahrawi people.
Addressing the human rights situation in the occupied parts of Western Sahara, El Mehdi noted that the Sahrawi people continue to suffer serious violations perpetrated by the occupying power.
Regarding the exploitation of resources in the occupied territory, she highlighted the legal efforts led by the Polisario Front. In this regard, she referred to the Sahrawi people’s complaints to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), which resulted in rulings affirming that the Sahrawi people are the sole authority entitled to manage the territory’s resources.
