As Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) Ambassador Mohamed Yeslem Beissat ends his diplomatic tenure in South Africa, the African National Congress (ANC) expressed appreciation for his service and “revolutionary integrity”.

Beissat was hosted by ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa on Monday to bid him farewell.

They also reaffirmed ties between the ANC and the Polisario Front – a Sahrawi nationalist liberation movement that is fighting for the independence of Western Sahara.

ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri explained that Beissat, the first accredited Ambassador of the SADR to South Africa, played a pivotal role in deepening revolutionary friendship and diplomatic cooperation between the two nations.

“President Cyril Ramaphosa conveyed warm and comradely greetings to President Brahim Ghali of the SADR, reaffirming the ANC’s unwavering solidarity. The ANC recalls with pride the historic 1988 visit by former President Oliver Reginald Tambo to the liberated zones of Western Sahara — a powerful moment of alliance and commitment against colonial domination. That same legacy continues to guide the ANC’s internationalist stance,” she explained.

The ANC congratulated Beissat on his recent appointment as Minister of International Relations and African Affairs of the SADR.

“…his new portfolio is a recognition of his principled leadership, and we are confident he will continue to advocate for the Sahrawi cause across the continent and beyond,” noted Bhengu-Motsiri.

The ANC urged the UN and African Union to intensify efforts towards a free and fair referendum for the Sahrawi people.

“We condemn the plunder of Sahrawi natural resources and the ongoing violations of international law in the occupied territories. As Ambassador Beissat embarks on his new leadership role, we express our profound appreciation for his diplomatic service and revolutionary integrity. The people of Western Sahara are not alone. Their freedom is our mandate — and their victory, Africa’s triumph,” highlighted Bhengu-Motsiri.