Renowned Sahrawi family denounces actions of relative

Aida Ould Tamek, dean of the Sahrawi family Ahl Tamek, has denounced the actions of Ali Salem Tamek, who advocates the separation of the Moroccan Sahara, describing him as a "traitor."

In a letter published Wednesday in the local newspaper "Assabah," Aida Ould Tamek said the Sahara is undeniably part and parcel of Morocco and cannot be subject to any blackmail.

He noted that Ali does not represent Ahl Tamel family which condemns his "insolent attitude" and his "betrayal."

All members of Ahl Tamek consider him a "renegade," and request that the name Ahl Tamek be withdrawn from him and that he no longer be part of the family, he said.

Aïda Ould Tamek, who is among the eminent members of the Sahrawi tribe of Aït Oussa, said "we will not allow any traitor or misled to express himself in our name, or to represent us whether inside or outside the country."

"Some who were led astray have exploited democracy and freedom to realize their objectives. (...) Their aim is to fool people in order to sow discord," said Aïda, who is also a prominent figure of the resistance against the French and Spanish colonialism.