SADC members reject controversial pact with Polisario

In a significant diplomatic rebuff, several member states of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have categorically rejected a contentious Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on April 2 with the so-called “Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic” (SADR). This agreement, orchestrated by South Africa without the necessary consultation or authorization from other SADC members, has sparked widespread condemnation within the regional bloc.

Malawi took a leading stance, issuing a clear diplomatic note stating that it “does not recognize the said memorandum of understanding” and is not bound by its terms. The government of Malawi reaffirmed its support for the Autonomy Plan as a pragmatic resolution to the ongoing Sahara issue, signaling its disapproval of South Africa's political maneuvering.

Zambia echoed Malawi's sentiments, formally rejecting the MoU in a communication to Morocco’s embassy in Lusaka on April 8, describing it as “non-binding.” The Zambian government reiterated its commitment to Morocco’s autonomy initiative, labeling it the “only credible, serious, and realistic solution” to the regional dispute.

The Union of the Comoros also expressed its disapproval through a note to the SADC Executive Secretariat, voicing “astonishment” at the signing and asserting that the Sahara issue should be addressed solely by the UN Security Council. The Comorian government invoked Article 5 of the SADC Constitutive Charter, warning that the organization’s involvement in the Sahara matter could undermine its credibility.

Eswatini joined the mounting opposition, stating in an official note that it does not recognize the MoU as binding. The kingdom reaffirmed its steadfast support for Morocco’s autonomy plan, emphasizing its commitment to Moroccan territorial integrity.

The escalating backlash against the agreement represents a significant setback for the Polisario, a separatist entity heavily supported by Algeria. International legal experts have noted that the Polisario operates under Algerian influence, functioning effectively as an extension of the Algerian state.

Michael Rubin, writing for the Middle East Forum, has called for the UN to withdraw its recognition of the Polisario, stressing that the group lacks legitimate electoral support from the Sahrawi people. Furthermore, a recent analysis from the Hudson Institute has characterized the Polisario as a destabilizing force aligned with Iran, engaged in activities that threaten regional stability.

The rejection of the SADC-Polisario agreement by Malawi, Zambia, Comoros, and Eswatini underscores a growing distance from South Africa’s ideological stance, reflecting a shift towards pragmatic solutions under Moroccan sovereignty. Each of these nations has opened consulates in Dakhla or Laayoune, further affirming their recognition of Morocco’s claims over the Sahara.

As the diplomatic crisis unfolds, the credibility of SADC is at risk, with member states increasingly rejecting procedural violations and politically motivated actions that extend beyond the organization’s regional mandate.