The South African Communist Party (SACP) may risk disappearing from the political landscape if it chooses to contest elections on its own, according to a stark warning from Gwede Mantashe, the ANC’s Secretary-General. Mantashe, speaking at a recent political event, drew comparisons between the SACP’s potential fate and that of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the Marxist Leninist Party (MKP), which have seen limited success in the electoral arena.
Mantashe emphasized that the SACP’s partnership with the African National Congress (ANC) has been a cornerstone of its political survival, urging the party to remain in alliance with the ruling party for mutual benefit. He warned that without the ANC’s backing, the SACP may not be able to maintain its relevance, much like other smaller parties that struggle to secure a significant voter base on their own.
The warning has sparked debate within South Africa’s political spectrum, with some arguing that the SACP should focus on strengthening its ideological foundation and connect more deeply with the electorate, while others stress the importance of maintaining strategic alliances for political survival.
The discussion continues as the country prepares for the upcoming national elections, with the SACP’s role and future uncertain.
