Zuma’s party backs Morocco’s Autonomy Plan, signaling shift in South Africa’s Sahara policy

In a notable shift within South Africa’s political landscape, the uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party, led by former President Jacob Zuma, has voiced support for Morocco’s autonomy plan to resolve the Sahara dispute. The position diverges sharply from the ruling African National Congress (ANC), which has long backed the Algeria-aligned Polisario Front.

The MK party’s endorsement, outlined in an official document, underscores a growing divergence from the ANC’s traditional ideological alignment with the separatist movement. Analysts say the development reflects increasing political pragmatism among South African elites and a recalibration of national interests.

Shadi Abdel Salam Baraq, an international expert in crisis management and conflict analysis, told local outlet Hespress that Zuma’s party is emerging as a significant opposition force, buoyed by his storied legacy in the ANC and the presidency. Given South Africa’s ongoing economic and governance crises, MK’s influence could reshape the nation’s political equilibrium and compel the ANC to reassess its foreign policy alliances.

“The party’s support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara is a strategic win for Rabat,” Baraq said, noting that South Africa has historically been a staunch defender of the Polisario’s claims. “This signals weakening support for separatism on the continent and shows that influential voices in South Africa are viewing autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty as a realistic path to peace.”

Baraq added that MK’s position may prompt Pretoria to rethink its stance, especially if the party gains momentum ahead of national elections. “This could mark the beginning of a strategic partnership with Morocco, opening doors for economic and diplomatic cooperation,” he said.

The ANC’s punitive dismissal of Obed Bapela, a senior party official who visited Morocco and advocated closer bilateral ties, had previously signaled its inflexible posture. In contrast, Zuma’s party appears to be positioning itself as a proponent of realpolitik, acknowledging the shifting international consensus around the Moroccan plan.

Said Berkanan, a political analyst specializing in international affairs, said the MK party’s stance reflects more than just political opposition. “This is the emergence of a new, realistic approach to the Western Sahara issue, one that isolates the ANC and highlights its outdated ideological commitments,” he said.

Berkanan argued that the ANC’s continued support for the Polisario has become a diplomatic liability, undermining South Africa’s regional and global standing. “With the growing international momentum behind Morocco’s autonomy initiative, and the Sahara emerging as a hub for regional development, Pretoria risks being left behind.”

He added that MK’s position could help South Africa break from its isolation and align with the African and international push for a lasting, pragmatic solution. “This signals the transition from individual dissent within the South African political class to an institutional party stance, which could ultimately reshape Pretoria’s foreign policy,” Berkanan concluded.

If MK gains electoral strength, observers believe a shift in South Africa’s Sahara policy is plausible, as the country reconsiders its strategic alliances in an evolving geopolitical context.