South Africa has formally raised concerns with Morocco over the display of its national flag during a meeting between former president Jacob Zuma and Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita in Rabat.
International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola said the use of South African state symbols during Zuma’s July 15 visit – where he appeared as leader of the opposition MK Party – violated diplomatic protocols. Photographs showed Zuma and MK official Magasela Mzobe seated with Moroccan officials beside both countries’ flags.
DIRCO spokesperson Chrispin Phiri stated the arrangement wrongly suggested an official state visit. “National flags represent government authority, not political parties. This creates a false impression of state endorsement for a non-governmental engagement,” he said.
The department emphasized that Zuma’s delegation didn’t represent South Africa’s official positions. Officials have urged Morocco to avoid similar situations to maintain proper bilateral relations based on mutual respect between sovereign states.
Morocco hasn’t yet responded to the diplomatic protest. The incident highlights ongoing tensions around Zuma’s international engagements since forming his breakaway MK Party. Analysts note it reflects broader challenges in distinguishing between state and party activities in diplomatic settings.
South Africa maintains its position that national symbols shouldn’t be used in ways that blur the line between government business and opposition party activities. The government says it will continue monitoring such matters to protect the integrity of state protocols.
