Colombian Lawmakers Reject Government's Stance on Western Sahara
On August 22, 2026, in Bogotá, a significant number of over 40 members of the Colombian Congress publicly denounced the recent decision made by President Abelardo de la Espriella's administration to recognize Morocco's occupation of Western Sahara. This collective condemnation was articulated in a formal statement released by the lawmakers, who characterized the government's move as an act that compromises Colombia's integrity by making it "complicit in the violation of the fundamental right to self-determination." The statement articulated a strong moral stance against the actions of Morocco, emphasizing that the oppression faced by the Sahrawi people constitutes one of the gravest injustices in contemporary history, deserving unequivocal condemnation from the international community.
The lawmakers drew attention to the stark contrast between the current administration's position and that of former President Gustavo Petro, whose inaugural foreign policy decision was to officially recognize the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) as a sovereign entity. This initial action included welcoming its ambassador and establishing an embassy in Bogotá, signifying Colombia's commitment to supporting the Sahrawi people's quest for autonomy. In their statement, the Congress members reiterated that the right to self-determination for the Sahrawi people is firmly grounded in numerous United Nations resolutions, which identify Western Sahara as the last colonial territory in Africa, thereby highlighting the urgency and legitimacy of this matter.
The document further elaborated on the plight of the Sahrawi people, noting that they have been persistently denied the opportunity to determine their own future. They are described as a population confined within their own land, facing systemic oppression. The Congress members did not shy away from characterizing the current government's position as "outrageous," particularly in light of Colombia's own painful history regarding forced displacement and the struggles faced by its own citizens.
In closing, the parliamentarians reaffirmed their dedication to championing human rights from their legislative platform, advocating for the rights of all oppressed communities globally. They expressed a resolute commitment to ensuring that the Sahrawi people can aspire to a future free from oppression, violence, and injustice. Additionally, they voiced their profound disapproval of the government's stance, which they believe does not reflect the sentiments of the Colombian populace.
As reported by spsrasd.info.
