The African National Congress (ANC) has strongly condemned actions by Morocco involving the South African national flag, calling it a violation of international diplomatic norms. The controversy stems from a bilateral meeting where the South African flag was used while receiving an opposition figure, an act the ANC views as provocative and undermining national sovereignty.
ANC's Outrage Over Flag Use
According to a statement released by the ANC, the use of the South African flag in this context represents a "reckless and provocative act" and an unacceptable intrusion into South Africa's internal political affairs. The party believes it's a deliberate attempt to delegitimize the country's constitutional order and discredit the authority of the democratically elected government.
DIRCO Urged to Take Action
The ANC is urging the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) to issue a formal diplomatic protest to Morocco, demanding an immediate explanation and apology. They are also calling on all South Africans, regardless of political affiliation, to reject this precedent, which they see as a threat to South Africa's sovereignty, democracy, and national unity.
Zuma's Involvement Criticized
Adding another layer to the controversy, the ANC has also criticized Jacob Zuma's alleged involvement. The party accuses Zuma of aligning himself with efforts that erode South Africa's standing in the international community and betray the principles of non-alignment, peace, and anti-colonial solidarity he once championed. The ANC's statement suggests Zuma's actions are opportunistic and detrimental to South Africa's interests.
The situation remains tense, and further developments are expected as DIRCO considers its next steps in addressing the ANC's concerns.