The African National Congress (ANC) has officially announced its decision to relieve Cde Obed Bapela of his duties as Deputy Chair of the party’s International Relations Subcommittee. This move follows a meeting Bapela allegedly had with Moroccan officials on 7 October 2024 in Morocco, which the ANC says contravenes its long-standing policies and principles. According to the ANC, Bapela’s meeting was focused on strengthening economic ties between South Africa and Morocco, which contradicted the party’s stance on Morocco’s occupation of Western Sahara.
The ANC expressed deep concern over Bapela’s actions, noting that his engagement with the Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs raised questions about his commitment to ANC values. The party emphasized that senior members must act with revolutionary discipline and uphold ANC policies. Bapela’s actions, particularly during the ANC’s ongoing efforts to maintain strong ties with the Polisario Front and the Sahrawi Republic, were seen as creating confusion and potentially undermining key relationships with the party’s allies. The ANC described his behavior as a violation of the resolutions made during its 55th National Conference.
In light of these developments, the ANC has removed Bapela from his position and instructed him to cease any further engagements related to international relations. His case will be referred to the Chief National Presenter for possible disciplinary action, citing his failure to comply with the party’s constitution and conference resolutions on Western Sahara. This decision reaffirms the ANC’s commitment to its principles and long-standing policies concerning international relations and solidarity with the Sahrawi people.
