By Ebi Kesiena
The Ghanaian government has officially announced the suspension of its relations with the self-proclaimed “Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic” (SADR).
This move is seen as a major gesture of support for Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces and strengthens its stance in the ongoing territorial dispute.
This announcement was made through a statement issued by Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration to Morocco’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Living Abroad.
The timing of this decision is noteworthy, coming just hours before the inauguration of Ghana’s new President, John Dramani Mahama, scheduled for Tuesday, 7 January, in Accra.
Ghana’s decision underscores its commitment to aligning its foreign policy with principles of international legality and supporting efforts towards a lasting resolution of the Sahara conflict. The government formally communicated its stance to Morocco, the African Union (AU), and the United Nations (UN).
In its statement, Ghana reaffirmed its support for Morocco’s efforts to achieve a comprehensive and fair political solution, reflecting an acknowledgement of Morocco’s proactive diplomatic strategies, particularly under the leadership of King Mohammed VI.
Over the last two decades, Morocco’s diplomatic efforts have led 46 countries, including 13 in Africa, to withdraw recognition of the SADR. Ghana now joins this growing international consensus, aligning itself with evolving geopolitical dynamics and aspirations for peace and stability in the Maghreb region.
Notably, Ghana, one of the first countries to recognise the SADR in 1979, has now reversed its stance, further consolidating Morocco’s influence in Africa and reinforcing its standing within international organisations.
