ANC dismisses reports on SACP election bid deliberations, emphasizes internal consultation

The ANC has dismissed reports regarding its special National Executive Committee NEC deliberations concerning the South African Communist Party's SACP decision to contest elections independently. The ANC stated that decisions on the SACP's election bid will be guided by "disciplined internal consultation" with alliance partners, rather than anonymous leaks. The SACP resolved in December 2024 to contest outside the ANC umbrella, citing the ANC's embrace of neoliberalism. SACP general-secretary Solly Mapaila announced this on January 6, marking a significant shift in the Tripartite Alliance, which includes the ANC, SACP, and Cosatu. ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu expressed concern over reports based on anonymous sources and speculative interpretations, clarifying that these do not represent the ANC's official position. Bhengu confirmed that the ANC has been engaging the SACP on its resolution and consulting with other alliance partners. Following the special NEC meeting, ANC national officials have been mandated to engage the SACP leadership on the deliberation outcomes and to consult further with other alliance partners. This process will also involve briefings to ANC formations and structures. The ANC plans to issue a comprehensive communiqué once consultations are complete.