🇿🇦South AfricaSouthern Africa
SACP will not instruct ministers to resign despite Mbalula's 'intimidation
via The Citizen5 min read
The South African Communist Party SACP has stated it will not direct its members to resign from government positions, despite escalating tensions with the African National Congress ANC. This decision comes after the SACP chose to contest elections independently for the first time in democratic South Africa. ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula indicated that ANC members holding dual membership must choose which party to campaign for, threatening punishment for those who campaign for the SACP without declaring it. The SACP's spokesperson, Mbulelo Mandlana, described Mbalula's stance as "intimidation" and unacceptable, asserting that members are free to make their own decisions regarding campaigns as long as they adhere to electoral laws. Mandlana also stated that the SACP will not demand declarations from its members. The SACP maintains confidence in its electoral plans and will not backtrack on its decision to contest elections independently, despite concerns raised by some high-ranking ANC members about the SACP's funding and support. The historic relationship between the ANC and SACP, forming the tripartite alliance, dates back to the 1920s, but the SACP has accused the ANC of disrespecting the alliance and moving away from its core ideals, citing concerns about corruption and abuse of state power.
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