The South African Communist Party (SACP) is gearing up for its fifth Special National Congress in December, where it will review its longstanding relationship with the African National Congress (ANC). The party is concerned that its partnership with the ANC has compromised its political independence and diluted its influence, prompting a reassessment of its role within the Tripartite Alliance.
The Tripartite Alliance, comprising the ANC, SACP, and Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu), is facing unprecedented challenges. The ANC’s decision to form a unity government with the Democratic Alliance, coupled with its declining electoral performance and voter disillusionment, has raised doubts about the alliance’s effectiveness.
The SACP is particularly concerned about being perceived as an extension of the ANC, rather than an independent political entity. This perception has hindered the party’s ability to mobilize support and maintain relevance, especially in light of the ANC’s diminishing popularity.
The party attributes the ANC’s electoral decline to factors such as poor service delivery, economic stagnation, and the emergence of new political movements like the uMkhonto weSizwe party in KwaZulu-Natal. To address these challenges, the SACP is considering a strategic pivot ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
The party aims to redefine its role within the alliance, emphasizing the need to regain its independence and focus on mobilizing working-class voters. It plans to contribute to the alliance’s election manifesto for the 2026 elections and may issue a separate statement to highlight socialist perspectives on local governance.
While the SACP rules out forming coalitions with the DA or the MK party, it seeks to engage with like-minded organizations beyond its traditional alliance partners. This includes collaborating with trade unions, progressive NGOs, and research institutions to advocate for socialist principles such as a universal basic income grant and equitable service delivery.
The party acknowledges the need to build grassroots power and influence to ensure a meaningful impact on government economic policy. It recognizes the importance of engaging with diverse stakeholders to advance its financial sector campaign and oppose budget cuts affecting workers and the poor.
As the SACP prepares for its December conference, it is clear that the party is committed to redefining its role within the Tripartite Alliance and reclaiming its political independence. By focusing on mobilizing working-class voters and collaborating with like-minded organizations, the SACP aims to strengthen its influence and advocate for socialist principles in the political landscape of South Africa. The Evolution of Electric Vehicles: A Look into the Future
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