During the event, held at the Laayoune Cultural Center, the High Commissioner for Former Resistance Fighters and Members of the Liberation Army, Mustapha El Ktiri, emphasized that commemorating these two anniversaries provides an opportunity to recall key historical milestones in the struggle for national liberation and the completion of territorial integrity.

In a speech delivered on his behalf by Hassan Anouzla, the regional representative of the High Commission, Mr. El Ktiri highlighted the involvement of the people of the Kingdom’s southern provinces in the national struggle. He stressed that from the earliest signs of foreign ambitions, they stood as staunch defenders of religious principles and national values against every invading aggressor. He added that history bears witness to their immense sacrifices and their willingness to give up everything precious to resist the colonial presence that had weighed heavily on the entire national territory since the beginning of the last century.

He noted that the Moroccan people, including the sons of this valiant region, under the leadership of the Alawite Throne, stood united against colonial ambitions and conspiracies aimed at dividing and fragmenting the nation, as well as schemes to plunder its resources and monopolize its wealth. The machinations of colonialism, he said, failed to weaken the unwavering resolve of the Throne and the people in resisting foreign occupation and confronting attempts to undermine Moroccan national identity and its religious, civilizational, historical, and cultural foundations.

Mr. El Ktiri added that one of the profound significances of commemorating these two glorious anniversaries lies in the powerful national lessons they convey. Renewed annually, these memories inspire youth and future generations to uphold the noble values, high ideals, civic responsibility, and virtuous character exemplified by members of the resistance and the Liberation Army.

He emphasized that the epic struggle for independence, led by the hero of liberation, His Majesty the late King Mohammed V, may God have mercy on him, in close coordination with the vanguard of the national movement, culminated in the events of August 20, 1953, when the French Protectorate authorities deposed the legitimate Sultan, Sidi Mohammed Ben Youssef, and exiled him along with the Royal Family.

He referred to the massive demonstrations and widespread uprisings that followed across cities and rural areas. The stance of the people of the Moroccan Sahara—then under Spanish occupation—was exemplary and unwavering, reflecting the highest levels of patriotism, loyalty to sacred values, allegiance to the nation, and a strong sense of belonging. They joined resistance organizations and contributed effectively to the liberation struggle, which culminated in victory and the triumphant return of His Majesty King Mohammed V to the homeland, carrying the torch of freedom and independence.

Mr. El Ktiri further recalled the historic visit of the late King Mohammed V to M’hamid El Ghizlane in the Zagora region on February 25, 1958, which embodied the strong bonds between leadership and people and reaffirmed Morocco’s commitment to completing its territorial integrity. From there, he declared the Moroccan people’s determination to liberate the remaining parts of the national territory still under foreign occupation.

The struggle for liberation and territorial unity continued with determination and faith, culminating in the recovery of Tarfaya on April 15, 1958. On June 30, 1969, Morocco reclaimed the city of Sidi Ifni during the reign of His Majesty the late King Hassan II. This path was crowned by the return of the southern provinces through the Green March on November 6, 1975, initiated by King Hassan II. The process was completed on August 14, 1979, with the recovery of the Oued Ed-Dahab region, fulfilling the aspirations of the Moroccan people for territorial integrity and full national independence.

Mr. El Ktiri stated that the journey toward consolidating territorial integrity has continued for over five decades with the same determination and national spirit. He pointed to the diplomatic developments of October 31, 2025, achieved under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, referring to the international recognition of Morocco’s autonomy proposal for the Sahara under national sovereignty and the adoption of UN Resolution 2797 as a framework for negotiations.

During the event, in keeping with the tradition of honoring those who dedicated themselves to the nation, 13 veterans of the resistance and members of the Liberation Army were honored in recognition of their patriotism, sacrifice, commitment, and loyalty.

In addition to this symbolic tribute, the High Commission provided material support. Financial assistance was distributed to a number of veterans and widows of deceased resistance members. A total of 70 grants, amounting to 140,000 dirhams, were allocated in recognition of their service to religion, country, and the Throne.

News and events on Western Sahara issue/ CORCAS