ANC-SACP rift deepens over DA collaboration

By Thapelo Molefe

Tensions between the African National Congress (ANC) and its alliance partner, the South African Communist Party (SACP), have increased following comments by the SACP’s Solly Mapaile criticising the ANC’s decision to work with the Democratic Alliance (DA).

The general secretary referred to the ANC as “sellouts” earlier this year. His comments were promptly rebuked by ANC secretary general Fikile Mbalula, who described them as unfortunate and insulting.

However, Mapaile stood by his statements on Monday, insisting that they were truthful and based on facts.

“The point is nothing is untruthful about what I said, and he makes wrong assumptions and even conclusions,” Mapaile said.

The controversy centres around the ANC’s decision to collaborate with the DA under the guise of a government of national unity, which the SACP vehemently opposes.

Mapaile argues that the SACP was not consulted about the decision, but rather informed after the fact,