World Leaders Renew Calls for Sahrawi People’s Right to Self-Determination at UNGA

By Dr. Kivumbi Earnest Benjamin, L.H.D (Hon.) updated at 1631 EAT on Tuesday 30th Sep 2025

NEW YORK (United Nations) – The struggle of the Sahrawi people for freedom and independence once again took center stage at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, as several heads of state reaffirmed their unwavering support for Western Sahara’s right to self-determination.

Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah condemned what she described as the “blockage and deadlock” deliberately imposed on the Security Council’s handling of Western Sahara, calling it “an injustice spanning over 34 years, since the adoption of Resolution 690 in 1991.”

H.E Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of Namibia. Courtesy photo

“It is high time to hold a referendum in Western Sahara, under the aegis of the United Nations, allowing the Sahrawi people to exercise their inalienable right to self-determination,” she declared, stressing that the continued denial of this right undermines international credibility.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa echoed this firm stance, stating that his country “backs the Sahrawi people’s legitimate cause” and reaffirming their right to determine their own destiny. “As UN member states, we carry the moral and legal responsibility to uphold the Sahrawi people’s right to freedom,” he said.

South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa – Courtesy of photo

Spain’s King Felipe VI also emphasized the urgency of resolving the Western Sahara conflict in strict accordance with international law and relevant UN resolutions. He reaffirmed Spain’s commitment to supporting the work of UN envoys, including Secretary-General António Guterres’ Personal Envoy for Western Sahara, Staffan de Mistura, in advancing a just and lasting solution.

King Felipe VI of Spain addresses the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, September 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Richard Drew)

“One of Spain’s priorities is contributing to UN efforts to achieve a political, just, and mutually agreed solution to regional conflicts in line with international standards — including the Western Sahara issue,” he stressed.

The renewed calls at the General Assembly reflect growing impatience with the decades-long delay in granting the Sahrawi people their long-promised referendum. Advocates argue that Western Sahara remains Africa’s last colony, and international solidarity is critical to ending the impasse and restoring the Sahrawi people’s fundamental rights.