SACP in KwaZulu-Natal supports ANC despite corruption allegations

The South African Communist Party (SACP) in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) has expressed its support for the Provincial Task Team (PTT) and highlighted improvements in relationships between the alliance partners, despite a backdrop of serious allegations of corruption affecting the African National Congress (ANC).

SACP Provincial Secretary Themba Mthembu shared insights into recent developments among the allies, stating that consultations among the alliance partners have been frequent since the PTT's formation within the ANC structures.

“So far, we can say that the relationships are improving day by day, but we are still holding our breath that it does last,” Mthembu said. Despite the decision to contest the 2026 local elections independently, the SACP remains committed to the alliance with the ANC, which it recognises as crucial for their collective future.

Mthembu acknowledged ongoing bilateral meetings between the national leaderships of the SACP and ANC, which emphasised the importance of collaboration.

However, he did not shy away from addressing the significant frustrations surrounding persistent corruption allegations that have plagued the ANC. As investigations continue into the activities of senior ANC members, including MECs Nomagugu Simelane and Sipho Hlomuka, who have been accused of benefiting from government tenders, Mthembu expressed concern for the integrity of the alliance and public trust.

The allegations, he pointed out, are not limited to the ANC’s upper echelons but cut across various government departments, severely affecting municipal governance. Political analyst Siphamandla Zondi echoed the sentiments of Mthembu regarding the urgent need for the ANC to act decisively.

“The responses to these allegations can either make them stick in the court of public opinion or diminish them. But this is damaging,” remarked Zondi, who stressed the need for the ANC to dissociate itself from corruption and ensure accountability among its leaders.

He urged the ANC to initiate internal investigations and refer involved members to its integrity commission.

The backdrop to this situation is the SACP's strategic decision last year to shift its electoral tactics, with intentions to contest future elections separately due to perceived failures of the ANC’s neoliberal agenda, which the SACP believes has compromised the well-being of South Africa’s most vulnerable citizens.

Citing issues like corporate class capture and the outsourcing of public services, the SACP plans to challenge the status quo in electoral engagements.

In light of these developments, ANC spokesperson Fanle Sibisi confirmed ongoing discussions with the SACP, emphasising the positive nature of these engagements. “We are confident that we will find each other, even though they would want to place their own candidate to contest; we would wish for them to do so with the banner of the ANC,” said Sibisi.

DAILY NEWS