ANC–SACP rift widens

By MBULELO BALOYI

Solly Mapaile, the SACP's general secretary, is one of the leaders pushing for the SACP to go it alone in the upcoming local government elections.

Tensions between the African National Congress (ANC) and the South African Communist Party (SACP) have intensified following events surrounding the 33rd anniversary of Chris Hani’s assassination, highlighting strains within the Tripartite Alliance ahead of the 2026 local government elections.

The rift

A planned commemoration on April 10 was overshadowed by a boycott from Hani’s family, who withdrew from official wreath‑laying ceremonies in Ekurhuleni. The family cited dissatisfaction with the handling of Hani’s legacy and concerns over their exclusion from key commemorative processes. Reports of disorganisation at the Thomas Nkobi Memorial Park further fuelled criticism.

The incident reflects broader tensions between the ANC and SACP, which have escalated in recent months. Central to the dispute is the SACP’s decision to contest the 2026 municipal elections independently, a move confirmed by general secretary Solly Mapaila despite objections from ANC leadership. The decision marks a significant shift in alliance politics, with the SACP breaking from its longstanding position of supporting the ANC electorally. It raises the likelihood of direct competition between the two organisations for the same voter base.

Within the ANC, calls are growing for members holding dual ANC–SACP membership to choose between the two, signalling rising frustration over the party’s ability to maintain cohesion within the alliance. Attempts to resolve the impasse, including proposals for an alliance summit, have yet to yield a breakthrough, with the SACP maintaining its electoral stance.

The dispute is rooted in longstanding policy and governance disagreements, with the SACP critical of the ANC’s economic direction and its perceived shift away from working‑class priorities. The anniversary of Hani’s assassination, historically a unifying moment for the alliance, has instead underscored deepening divisions, raising questions about the future of one of South Africa’s most enduring political partnerships.

ANC supporters standing shoulder to shoulder with Minister of Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande. Calls by some ANC leaders to end the status of those who hold dual ANC-SACP membership.

SACP going it alone

Meanwhile, ANC Secretary‑General Fikile Mbalula told reporters at a press conference at the Birchwood Hotel in Johannesburg on Friday that his party has accepted that the SACP will contest the elections on its own for the first time in the post democratic era.

“We have failed to persuade the SACP against contesting the elections solo. They have taken a decision, and we respect it,” said Mbalula, adding that the ANC would factor this going forward. TQ