The organisation known as the South African Communist Party (SACP) is preparing for its fifth Special National Congress to be held at the Birchwood Hotel in Ekurhuleni from 11 to 14 December. This congress is of particular importance to the SACP as it provides a crucial opportunity to assess its long-standing relationship with the African National Congress (ANC) and to reflect on the impact of this alliance on its political independence and influence.
At the heart of the SACP’s concerns is the question of the political formation’s identity and its ability to remain a distinct voice in South African politics. The SACP increasingly feels itself to be merged with the ANC, which is undermining its ability to mobilise support and maintain relevance among the working class. This perception of being merely an extension of the ANC risks undermining the SACP’s aim of serving as an advocate for working people and working for deeper social change.
Furthermore, the historic decline in the ANC’s electoral score to 40% in the 2024 national elections has raised questions about the effectiveness of the tripartite alliance comprising the ANC, SACP and the Confederation of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu). The ruling party’s disappointing electoral performance has highlighted voter frustrations over poor service delivery, economic stagnation and the emergence of new political movements.
In this context, the SACP stresses the need to redefine its role within the alliance and strengthen its political independence. The party is considering a strategic pivot ahead of the 2026 municipal elections, with a focus on mobilising working-class voters and defining an electoral programme rooted in socialist principles.
While the SACP rules out any form of coalition with parties such as the ANC or the MK Party, it stresses the importance of engaging with organisations that share similar values. These partnerships could help advance progressive policies such as a universal basic income, expanding public employment programs, fighting budget cuts affecting workers and the poor, and advocating for a campaign focused on the financial sector.
In short, the SACP is seeking to balance its traditional commitment to the tripartite alliance with its desire to preserve its distinct political identity. This Special National Congress is an important step in the party’s strategic thinking, which aims to strengthen its influence and relevance in the evolving South African political landscape.