ANC Eastern Cape chair Oscar Mabuyane has expressed openness to potential cooperation between the ANC and SACP after the November 4 local government elections. Mabuyane made these comments during the SACP's Red October launch in Great Kei over the weekend. He emphasized that the outcome of the elections could create circumstances for progressive forces to work together in municipalities. Mabuyane's statement suggests a willingness to collaborate with the SACP, despite the parties contesting the elections separately.
Mabuyane highlighted the need for progressive forces to focus on common goals rather than political positions. He warned against making positions the basis of any post-election arrangement, stating that this would reduce revolutionary politics to the arithmetic of office. Instead, Mabuyane emphasized the importance of rebuilding municipalities, creating employment, tackling corruption, strengthening public institutions, and advancing developmental local government. These comments reflect Mabuyane's vision for a potential ANC-SACP partnership.
The ANC is entering the elections in a more vulnerable position than at any previous local government election since 1994, according to Mabuyane. He attributed this vulnerability to organisational weakness, factionalism, governance challenges, declining municipal capacity, and a trust deficit. Mabuyane acknowledged that the ANC no longer possesses the same level of political power it once commanded, and that the party must earn the confidence of the people anew. This self-assessment reflects the ANC's awareness of its current challenges.
Mabuyane also raised the prospect of reconfiguring the Tripartite Alliance after the elections. He suggested that the post-election political environment may compel the alliance to give concrete meaning to its concept. This would require discussions about the alliance's strategic purpose, decision-making, the role of organised labour, the ANC-SACP relationship, and its programme. Mabuyane's comments indicate that the ANC is considering changes to its alliances.
Mabuyane urged members of the ANC and SACP to exercise restraint and avoid deepening tensions during the election period. He acknowledged that there will be political differences and criticism, but emphasized the need for political discipline. Mabuyane highlighted the shared history of the ANC and SACP, including their joint efforts against apartheid and in constructing the democratic state. He encouraged members to prioritize their shared goals over party differences.
The SACP is contesting the elections independently of the ANC, but Mabuyane emphasized that SACP members holding positions in the state should not be removed solely because of their party affiliation. He suggested that public office holders should be assessed on their competence, integrity, performance, and commitment to transformation. Mabuyane's comments reflect his commitment to maintaining stability and continuity in governance.
Mabuyane concluded by emphasizing that the ANC and SACP will still face the same challenges after the elections, regardless of the outcome. He stated that the parties may enter the elections under different banners but will still need to work together to address the country's challenges. Mabuyane reaffirmed the ANC's strategic alliance with the SACP and emphasized the need for cooperation and collaboration.
Key points
- ANC Eastern Cape chair Oscar Mabuyane suggests potential cooperation between ANC and SACP after November 4 local government elections.
- Mabuyane emphasizes need for progressive forces to focus on common goals rather than political positions.
- ANC is entering elections in vulnerable position due to organisational weakness, factionalism, and governance challenges.
