Polisario Front Seeks Uruguayan Support Amid Regional Setbacks

The Polisario Front is leveraging Uruguay’s political shift to seek support, highlighted by Brahim Ghali’s presence at the inauguration of President Yamandú Orsi. Uruguay has recognized the SADR since 2005, remaining steadfast even under previous center-right leadership. However, the Polisario faces setbacks in South America, with notable suspensions of recognition from Panama and Ecuador and recent congressional motions in Colombia.

The Polisario Front is actively seeking support in Uruguay, particularly after the recent return of a leftist government. Brahim Ghali attended the inauguration of the new Uruguayan president, Yamandú Orsi, indicating a strategic engagement on the part of the Front following their longstanding recognition by Uruguay of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) since 2005.

Uruguay’s recognition of the SADR was initially established under the left-wing coalition Frente Amplio in the autumn of 2004. Even after the election of center-right president Luis Lacalle Pou in December 2019, there was no significant shift in Uruguay’s stance on this recognition, maintaining its support for the SADR.

Brahim Ghali’s visit is particularly noteworthy as it occurs amid recent challenges faced by the Polisario Front in South America. Both Panama and Ecuador have recently suspended their recognition of the SADR, and there has been a motion in the Colombian Congress encouraging President Gustavo Petro to reconsider affirmations made regarding the entity in August 2022.

In summary, the Polisario Front’s efforts to consolidate support in Uruguay coincides with leadership changes favoring the left. Despite setbacks in other South American countries, Uruguay’s consistent recognition of the SADR since 2005 showcases potential avenues for continued alliance. The developments reflect the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding the region’s support for the Sahrawi cause.

Original Source: en.yabiladi.com