Sahrawi Media Figure Mohamed Lamin Hamdi Criticizes French Support for Moroccan Occupation, Reaffirms Commitment to Western Sahara’s Liberation

✏️ By: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | July 26th, 2024 — Mohamed Lamin Hamdi, a distinguished Sahrawi media figure, has vehemently criticized France for its enduring support of Moroccan control over Western Sahara. In an exclusive interview with Dzair Tube, Hamdi underscored that the recent endorsement by the French government of a “Moroccan autonomy plan” is merely an extension of France’s historical partiality rather than a new development in the Western Sahara conflict.

Hamdi articulated that the French endorsement for “autonomy”, which has recently been thrust into the spotlight, is not a new initiative but rather a continuation of France’s long-standing stance. “The autonomy proposal now being promoted by France is not a new concept; it is simply a reiteration of France’s entrenched policy,” Hamdi asserted. He criticized the French government for its unwavering support of Morocco’s occupation of Western Sahara, highlighting how France has consistently backed Moroccan interests in international arenas, particularly within the United Nations Security Council. Hamdi pointed out that French vetoes have frequently blocked resolutions that would have favored the Sahrawi cause.

Hamdi elaborated that before 2005, various proposals, including independence, a referendum, and self-determination, were under consideration. However, the notion of autonomy was not among them. “Prior to 2005, the discussions encompassed various options like independence and self-determination. The concept of autonomy only emerged later and aligns with France’s historically biased position,” he explained.

The media figure expressed his disillusionment with claims from certain sectors that France is supportive of the Polisario Front and the Sahrawi people. Hamdi firmly rejected these claims, emphasizing that the Sahrawi struggle for self-determination remains steadfast despite international policies or decisions. “There are misguided assertions that France supports the Polisario Front and the Sahrawi people. In reality, our struggle against Moroccan occupation and the international powers backing it continues unabated,” Hamdi asserted.

Hamdi also noted that despite various international pressures and the support Morocco receives from multiple countries, including France, the determination of the Sahrawi people remains unshaken. “Despite the international influences and the backing Morocco receives from various countries, including France, the Sahrawi people’s resolve to resist occupation and challenge the historical support for Moroccan claims remains resolute,” he concluded.

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