By Johnathan Paoli
Former president Thabo Mbeki has called for an inclusive national dialogue to tackle South Africa’s pressing challenges such as unemployment, inequality, poverty and lawlessness, among others.
Addressing the South African Communist Party’s (SACP) 5th Special National Congress in Boksburg, Mbeki stressed the importance of unity in forging a way forward for the country.
“The National Dialogue is critical for us to collectively understand the way forward, and the need for cohesion in tackling the country’s socio-economic crises,” Mbeki said.
The congress also marked the SACP’s historic decision to contest the 2026 municipal elections independently of the tripartite alliance.
It brought together key leaders from the African National Congress, COSATU, and the SACP.
Mbeki stressed that parties within the Government of National Unity (GNU) supported the idea of a national dialogue, despite some concerns from the Democratic Alliance (DA) about being sidelined.
Meanwhile, COSATU, a key member of the tripartite alliance, announced its support for the SACP’s decision to run independently in the 2026 municipal elections.
Cosatu deputy president Mike Shingange delivered a strong message at the congress, citing frustrations with the ANC’s recent governance approach, particularly its collaboration with the DA in the GNU.
Shingange criticised the DA’s opposition to alliance-backed policies, such as the national minimum wage, the Basic Education Laws Amendment (Bela) Act, and the National Health Insurance (NHI).
He warned that these ideological differences had strained the alliance.
“The ANC has no reason to be angry when we criticize the GNU that includes the DA. Do not force us to love people who hate us,” Shingange declared, urging the alliance to address its internal fractures.
While Cosatu has not yet confirmed whether it will back the SACP or ANC in the elections, Shingange hinted at the federation’s alignment with socialist principles, stating: “We will support the organisation that pursues socialism because that is our logical conclusion in the national democratic revolution.”
Deputy president Paul Mashatile previously acknowledged the ANC’s shortcomings in engaging its alliance partners, admitting that consultations had been rushed following the 2021 elections.
SACP General Secretary Solly Mapaila similarly reiterated that the party’s decision to contest elections independently was not meant to weaken the alliance but to strengthen its ability to deliver on its socialist agenda.
“We should be ready to be humbled by the masses,” Mapaila said, emphasising the need for accountability and service to the public.
The congress concluded with a resolve to strengthen South Africa’s progressive movements, counter imperialism, and nurture alliances that address systemic inequalities.
The SACP’s independent bid is seen as a bold step to redefine its role within South Africa’s political landscape while continuing to advocate for socialism and justice.
As the nation grapples with deepening socio-economic challenges, the call for a national dialogue and the reconfiguration of political alliances underscore the urgency of finding solutions that resonate with the broader South African populace.
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