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African National Congress (ANC) Secretary General Fikile Mbalula has rejected claims that tensions between the party and the South African Communist Party (SACP) mark the beginning of a collapse in their long-standing alliance.
The disagreement centres on the SACP’s decision to contest elections independently, a move that has created friction between the two partners ahead of the upcoming local government polls.
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Speaking after separate party briefings on Thursday, Mbalula maintained that while differences remain unresolved, the situation should not be interpreted as a permanent rupture.
He acknowledged, however, that the shift could encourage some ANC members to align themselves with the SACP if they are excluded from the ANC’s candidate lists.
ANC And SACP Deadlock Over Election Campaign Participation
The two organisations remain at odds, with the SACP refusing to comply with the ANC’s demand that members clarify their political allegiance ahead of the election season.
In response, Mbalula confirmed that the ANC will engage its internal structures to finalise guidelines for campaigning. He also announced that SACP members will no longer participate in ANC election meetings, ending a long-standing practice.
Despite the firm stance, Mbalula insisted relations between the parties remain intact.
“We are not divorcing. We are not even in separation. We are just exploring what could happen.”
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Dual Membership Deadline And Election Conduct Expectations
Mbalula has given members who belong to both organisations a 10-day window to declare which party they will actively campaign for during the elections.
“We don’t believe that it will get to a position where anyone must be expelled.”
He added that he expects a disciplined contest between the ANC and SACP, with both parties avoiding negative campaigning.
Mbalula emphasised that the focus should remain on a fair electoral process rather than internal disputes, even as the alliance navigates a new phase of political competition.
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