COSATU leaves ANC or SACP election support decision to unions

The Congress of Trade Unions of South Africa (COSATU) has announced that its affiliated unions will decide whether to support the African National Congress (ANC) or the South African Communist Party (SACP) in upcoming elections. COSATU President Zingiswa Losi emphasized that the unity of workers must remain sacrosanct and that the decision will be debated at the federation's 15th National Congress next month.

Separately, the South African Communist Party (SACP) held its 13th Plenary of the 15th Congress in Johannesburg. During the meeting, the SACP launched its 2026 local government election manifesto. General Secretary Solly Mapaila presented a political report addressing the crisis of capitalism in South Africa and the party's mission to advance toward socialism and organize the working class.

COSATU leadership also raised concerns regarding domestic issues, including unemployment, poverty, rising living costs, and the deterioration of public services. Additionally, officials noted challenges regarding border management and a shortage of labor inspectors to monitor workplaces.