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|Independence Manifesto: Milestone in National Struggle for Freedom and Sovereignty
The Moroccan people commemorated yesterday, Sunday, the 82nd anniversary of the presentation of the Independence Manifesto, issued on January 11, 1944. This historic event represents a pivotal milestone in Morocco’s national struggle for freedom, independence, national sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
In a statement, the High Commission for Former Resistance Fighters and Members of the Liberation Army affirmed that the Moroccan people—together with the families of the National Movement, the Resistance, and the Liberation Army—commemorate this occasion with pride and reverence. Observed within the context of a comprehensive and ongoing national mobilization under the wise leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist him, this anniversary stands among the most cherished and glorious moments in the epic struggle for freedom, independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. It is deeply rooted in the national historical consciousness, and its profound significance and national dimensions continue to be instilled in younger generations. These dimensions embody the height of national awareness and the strength of the enduring bond between the Throne and the people in defense of religious sanctities and national constants, while confidently looking toward the future.
The statement added that the presentation of the Independence Manifesto on January 11, 1944, is a landmark historical event firmly etched in the collective memory of all Moroccans. It continues to be commemorated as a tribute to the heroes of the National Movement, the Resistance, and the Liberation Army, and as recognition of the great acts of heroism carried out by the sons of this nation with deep patriotism, strong faith, and unwavering conviction in the justice of their cause to liberate the homeland. These sacrifices were made to break free from the yoke of colonialism and to preserve dignity and honor.
It further noted that throughout its long history, Morocco has stood resolutely against the ambitions of those who sought to covet its land, defending its existence, fundamental principles, identity, and unity. The Kingdom spared no effort to preserve its territorial unity, enduring immense sacrifices in confronting the foreign occupier who, at the beginning of the last century, imposed control over the national territory and divided it into zones of influence: a French Protectorate in central Morocco, a Spanish Protectorate in the north, a colonial administration in the southern provinces, and an international regime imposed on the Tangier region.
The statement emphasized that both the Throne and the people made tremendous sacrifices through a prolonged and multifaceted struggle to confront this fragmentation and division of the national territory. This struggle took various forms, including popular uprisings and fierce battles in the Middle Atlas, the north, and the south, as well as political action such as opposition to the discriminatory colonial decree of May 16, 1930; the presentation of reformist demands in 1934 and 1936; and ultimately the presentation of the Independence Manifesto on January 11, 1944.
Throughout these historical phases, the Father of the Nation and hero of liberation and independence, His Majesty the late King Mohammed V, may God have mercy upon him, played a decisive role in igniting the flame of the national struggle and shaping its direction and objectives following his accession to the throne on November 18, 1927. This valiant King, a symbol of resistance and sacrifice, embodied the Moroccan people’s firm belief in liberation and their determination to achieve independence. Through his historic speeches, he articulated the nation’s aspirations for freedom and independence and affirmed Morocco’s attachment to its fundamental principles and core values, defying all attempts to erase its national identity.
His Majesty the late King Mohammed V seized the opportunity presented by the historic Anfa Conference in January 1943 to raise the issue of Moroccan independence and the abolition of the protectorate system. He recalled Morocco’s unwavering support for the Allied forces during World War II and its contribution to the liberation of Europe from Nazi occupation. This position received support from then U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who considered Morocco’s aspiration to regain its independence both reasonable and legitimate.
In line with the principle of peoples’ right to self-determination, a qualitative shift occurred in the trajectory of the national struggle, leading to the idea of presenting the Independence Manifesto. Inspired by His Majesty the late King Mohammed V, national leaders prepared the historic document in close coordination with him, reaching full agreement on its content.
The Independence Manifesto outlined a set of political demands and objectives structured around two main pillars. The first concerned general policy, emphasizing the independence of Morocco under the leadership of the legitimate King, Sidi Mohammed Ben Youssef, efforts to secure this independence from relevant countries, Morocco’s accession to the Atlantic Charter, and participation in the Peace Conference. The second pillar focused on domestic policy, calling for royal patronage of reform and the establishment of a consultative political system similar to those in Arab and Islamic countries, ensuring the rights and duties of all segments of Moroccan society.
The High Commission underscored that the Independence Manifesto, in its historical context and given the circumstances under which it was issued, constituted a true national revolution. It reflected the awareness, maturity, and capacity of Moroccans to defend their legitimate rights, determine their destiny, and manage their own affairs. It also demonstrated their refusal to submit to colonial domination and their steadfast determination to pursue the struggle until victory was achieved through the glorious epic of the Throne and the People.
The statement further affirmed that the family of the National Movement, the Resistance, and the Liberation Army, while commemorating this anniversary rich in lessons and values, welcomes United Nations Resolution No. 2797, recognizing it as a decisive historical development. This achievement is the culmination of the sustained and high-level diplomatic efforts led by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, marked by wisdom, vision, and foresight, particularly in consolidating Morocco’s position on the Sahara issue on the international stage and gaining the trust of major global actors regarding the credibility and realism of the autonomy initiative.
In this context, and like all components of Moroccan society—including political parties, trade unions, human rights organizations, and youth movements—the High Commission reaffirmed its continued mobilization, vigilance, and unwavering readiness to stand behind His Majesty, may God protect him, in implementing the autonomy framework within advanced regionalization and transforming the southern provinces into a hub for development, stability, peace, and African cooperation.
To celebrate this glorious occasion with the dignity and reverence it deserves, and to highlight its national significance, values, and noble objectives—particularly among youth and future generations—the High Commission for Former Resistance Fighters and Members of the Liberation Army is organizing a commemorative ceremony and symposium today, Monday, at 11:00 a.m., at the National Space for Historical Memory of the Resistance and Liberation in Rabat. The event will feature speeches and presentations shedding light on this immortal historical milestone and its enduring lessons and messages.
On this occasion, a select group of veteran resistance fighters and members of the Liberation Army will be honored in recognition of their sacrifices and distinguished contributions to the nation. In addition, educational, cultural, and outreach programs will be organized nationwide across all regional and provincial delegations, local offices, and historical memory spaces—totaling 109 sites—in coordination with government departments, public institutions, elected bodies, associations, and civil society organizations.
News and events on Western Sahara issue/ CORCAS
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| 1/12/2026
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