The South African Communist Party (SACP) held a media briefing on Wednesday, during their 5th Special National Congress at Ekurhuleni in Boksburg, tackling the congress' four-day program, internal issues faced by the SACP, tensions surrounding the Government of National Unity (GNU), and rumours that the SACP wanted the ANC to form an alliance with the uMkhonto Wesizwe Party (MKP).
The briefing was led by the organisation’s General Secretary, Solly Mapaila, National Treasurer Joyce Moloi Moropa, and National Chairperson Blade Nzimande.
Mapaila emphasised the importance of inclusivity and equal access as foundational principles for the SACP's mission.
"We are witnessing another key area of engagement in this space: supporting homeless drivers as part of the program's implementation," said Mapaila.
Regarding the circulating rumours, Mapaila swiftly dismissed the allegations that the SACP sought an alliance between the ANC and the MKP.
"The SACP will never be in favour of the MK party, and we will never work with them. The only thing we want is for the ANC to be in alliance with the EFF and other parties, excluding the DA and the MKP," Mapaila stated.
Moloi Moropa echoed Mapaila’s sentiments, explaining that the SACP would not engage with the MKP because it is a relatively new party whose direction remains unclear.
Mapaila further explained: "If we say something, we will announce it. We have never said that we would not engage in such discussions. But there is an agenda at play, a capability agenda.
The idea is that the ANC should not have a relationship with the EFF or the MK party, especially in the lead-up to the 2024 May elections. This idea has been labeled the 'Doomsday Coalition,' a term coined by the media and certain sectors of capital driving this agenda."
He continued: "After the elections, we held a meeting with our officials to assess the state of the election.
We were also preparing for an alliance secretary meeting that afternoon. A special political bureau meeting was convened two days later, just after the election results were announced. We extended that political bureau to include provincial secretaries, chairpersons, and other members."
Mapaila further stressed that the SACP is not in talks with the MKP.
Regarding the issue of the Government of National Unity (GNU), the SACP made it clear that they are opposed to it, as they do not align with the DA’s policies. Chairperson Blade Nzimande added that the DA’s opposition to the BELA Act is akin to preserving white schools by using privileged language, whereas the SACP fully supports the implementation of the BELA Act.
In response to concerns about the SACP’s profile, Moloi explained, "Since its inception, the SACP has been led by credible leaders. Clear-sightedness has always been part of our identity. Many of you might recognise that even during challenging times, we must take a moment to reflect on this legacy, especially when leadership is under pressure."
She continued, "I’ve seen remarkable leaders who have left a profound impact.
"These were not just our leaders—they were individuals who inspired us to join this broader struggle, including the feminist fight. It is important to honor and acknowledge those who were part of this movement and who motivated us to persevere."
The congress also highlighted that 600 delegates are participating, with 300 delegates from local branches and 300 international guests and representatives from other organisations. The ANC has requested to add more provincial chairpersons, which would bring the total number of delegates to 700.
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