Gqeberha, Eastern Cape – The South African Communist Party (SACP) in the Eastern Cape has announced it will contest every municipality in the province in the 2026 Local Government Elections, marking a significant shift as the party prepares to run independently for the first time.
The decision was confirmed during the SACP’s Nelson Mandela Bay District Congress, held in Gqeberha under the theme “Forward to 2026 Local Government Elections with the Working Class and the Poor.” The gathering saw the election of new leadership and a firm resolution to break from its traditional alliance with the African National Congress (ANC), which the SACP accuses of abandoning the working class.
A Break from the Tripartite Alliance
SACP leaders criticized the ANC for pursuing neoliberal policies and austerity measures, which they argue have worsened poverty, unemployment, and inequality. “The conditions of the working class are weakening,” a party representative stated. “Unemployment and inequality are increasing, yet there is still a commitment to neoliberalism. That is why we have decided to contest these elections independently.”
The SACP emphasized its commitment to socialism, asserting that the ANC no longer represents the economic interests of the majority. “Socialism is about ensuring the people benefit from the economy,” the party declared. “Unless we assert our independence, the struggle for socialism will not be achieved.”
Wall-to-Wall Contestation
While the SACP’s national leadership will finalize election strategies, the Eastern Cape structure has resolved to compete in all municipalities, not just key metros like Nelson Mandela Bay and Buffalo City. Preparations are already underway, with the party launching a “Red Caravan” campaign to mobilize communities around issues such as land reform, rising living costs, water access, and opposition to privatization.
“The people must not be spectators in the changes that need to happen,” the SACP said, vowing to fight against the privatization of basic services like water and electricity, which it claims disproportionately harm the poor.
Unemployment and Crime Top Concerns
In Nelson Mandela Bay, where unemployment exceeds 20% and crime remains rampant, the SACP identified joblessness as the most pressing issue. However, the party remained tight-lipped on whether it would form coalitions if it fails to secure majority seats, stating only that its focus is on grassroots mobilization.
A New Chapter for the SACP?
This move signals a potential realignment in South African politics, as the SACP—long a junior partner in the ANC-led alliance—steps out on its own. Analysts will be watching whether the party can translate its working-class rhetoric into electoral gains amid growing dissatisfaction with the ANC.
With the 2026 elections on the horizon, the SACP’s campaign is set to test its ability to carve out an independent path while challenging its former allies on their home turf.
SAT – International
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