Media Statements

The African National Congress (ANC) had the honour of hosting H.E. Ambassador Mohamed Yeslem Beissat of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) for a farewell courtesy call with ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa.

This engagement marked the conclusion of Ambassador Beissat’s diplomatic tenure in South Africa and reaffirmed the enduring fraternal bond between the ANC and the Polisario Front — two liberation movements united by a shared history of struggle for justice, self-determination, and the complete decolonisation of Africa.

Ambassador Beissat, the first accredited Ambassador of the SADR to South Africa, has played a pivotal role in deepening revolutionary friendship and diplomatic cooperation between our two nations. The ANC congratulates him on his recent appointment as Minister of International Relations and African Affairs of the SADR. His new portfolio is a recognition of his principled leadership, and we are confident he will continue to advocate for the Sahrawi cause across the continent and beyond.

President Cyril Ramaphosa conveyed warm and comradely greetings to H.E. President Brahim Ghali of the SADR, reaffirming the ANC’s unwavering solidarity. The ANC recalls with pride the historic 1988 visit by former President Oliver Reginald Tambo to the liberated zones of Western Sahara — a powerful moment of alliance and commitment against colonial domination. That same legacy continues to guide the ANC’s internationalist stance.

The ANC calls on the United Nations, African Union, and all progressive forces to intensify efforts towards a free and fair referendum for the Sahrawi people. We condemn the plunder of Sahrawi natural resources and the ongoing violations of international law in the occupied territories. As Ambassador Beissat embarks on his new leadership role, we express our profound appreciation for his diplomatic service and revolutionary integrity. The people of Western Sahara are not alone. Their freedom is our mandate — and their victory, Africa’s triumph.

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