On a recent parliamentary session, Ahmed Touizi, President of the House of Representatives, emphasized the importance of the non-renewal of the MINURSO mandate. This decision, made by the UN Security Council on October 30, 2026, marks a significant shift in the international handling of the Western Sahara dispute. The move follows the adoption of Resolution 2797 in 2025, which reaffirmed the central role of Morocco's autonomy plan.
According to Touizi, the non-renewal of MINURSO's mandate represents a major turning point, after 35 years of the mission's presence in the region. This decision implies several operational consequences, including the departure of mission members from the southern provinces and the withdrawal of vehicles, equipment, and other related elements. The Moroccan government has outlined these steps in a Royal Cabinet communiqué.
The non-renewal of MINURSO's mandate is seen as a new chapter in Morocco's diplomatic efforts, with increased responsibilities in consolidating diplomatic gains and territorial development. Touizi attributes these advancements to King Mohammed VI's diplomatic strategy, which has strengthened international support for Morocco's autonomy initiative under Moroccan sovereignty.
The parliamentary session demonstrated a consensus among various political formations regarding the issue of territorial integrity. Touizi reaffirmed the Parliament's commitment to continuing its work in legislation, oversight, and parliamentary diplomacy to accompany future developments. He also highlighted the need for concrete institutional actions to translate national consensus into tangible progress.
Touizi expressed concern over the living conditions of populations in the Tindouf camps, calling on the international community to assume its responsibilities regarding their fundamental rights. He emphasized that the next steps require translating national consensus into concrete institutional actions, particularly in the economic, social, and cultural development of the southern provinces.
The development is viewed as a significant step towards the definitive closure of the Western Sahara issue at the United Nations. According to Touizi, the Royal Cabinet's communiqué underscores the importance of this evolution. The Moroccan government is expected to continue its diplomatic efforts to consolidate gains and address regional development challenges.
The Moroccan Parliament is set to continue its mobilization efforts, with a focus on legislation, oversight, and parliamentary diplomacy. The non-renewal of MINURSO's mandate is seen as an opportunity for Morocco to further assert its sovereignty and address regional development needs.
Key points
- The Moroccan parliament has highlighted the implications of the non-renewal of MINURSO's mandate.
- The decision marks a significant shift in the international handling of the Western Sahara dispute.
- Morocco is expected to continue its diplomatic efforts to consolidate gains and address regional development challenges.
