South African Communist Party launches independent election manifesto

The South African Communist Party (SACP) has launched its manifesto for the upcoming local government elections scheduled for 4 November. This marks the first time since 1994 that the party will contest these elections on a nationwide basis independently of its alliance partner, the African National Congress (ANC).

During the launch at the Tshwane University of Technology’s Soshanguve Campus, General Secretary Solly Mapaila stated that the party aims to draw candidates from the best ‘left forces’ of society. He emphasized the party’s commitment to the working-class struggle, aiming to end exploitation, inequality, and the transfer of economic and social power to the people.

The SACP has recently faced policy disagreements with the ANC, particularly regarding the formation of the government of national unity. Party members also highlighted socio-economic challenges facing South Africans, including rising poverty and the high cost of electricity due to a lack of state investment and a shift toward private sector profit-driven generation.