Blade Nzimande
By Thabo Mosia
Chairperson of the South African Communist Party (SACP) and Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Blade Nzimande, has reaffirmed his commitment to his ministerial duties despite his party’s objection to the Government of National Unity (GNU). Speaking at the SACP’s 5th Special National Congress in Boksburg on Wednesday, Nzimande stated, “Me in the GNU, I do the work I have been given to the best of my ability.”
The GNU, led by the African National Congress (ANC) in coalition with the Democratic Alliance (DA), has faced criticism from the SACP, which sees the DA’s values as “diametrically opposed” to its principles. While acknowledging the coalition was necessary after the ANC lost its majority, Nzimande expressed hope that the alliance would revisit its strategy to unite traditional partners under a common vision.
SACP’s Historical Disagreements with ANC Policies
Nzimande highlighted that this is not the first time the SACP has disagreed with ANC-led government policies. Drawing parallels to the controversial Growth, Employment and Redistribution Strategy (GEAR) introduced in the 1990s, Nzimande said, “We remain opposed to policies like GEAR, which we believe were a bad idea then and remain so today.”
This historical context underscores the SACP’s ongoing struggle to balance its role as an independent party within the tripartite alliance while supporting the ANC’s governance.
SACP’s Position on the GNU
The SACP has been vocal in its disapproval of the GNU, particularly its inclusion of the DA, which it characterises as neoliberal and incompatible with the values of the working class. General Secretary Solly Mapaila criticised the decision, stating, “We said no to the neoliberalism of the DA and no to the party of state capture, the MK Party. The party we said yes to was the EFF.”
Mapaila also dismissed allegations that the SACP advocated for a coalition involving former President Jacob Zuma’s MK Party. “We have no formal relations with the MK Party. These claims are distortions. Our position has always been clear: we prioritise alliances with progressive parties like the EFF, GOOD Party, Al Jama-ah, UDM, and PAC.”
Contesting the 2026 Elections
The SACP’s stance on the GNU reflects broader tensions within the alliance and has prompted the party to consider contesting the 2026 local government elections independently. At the congress, SACP Treasurer General Joyce Moloi-Moropa outlined plans to fund the campaign, noting that the party would rely on its members to raise money.
“Yes, the party doesn’t normally have a lot of money most of the time, but we have ways and means of ensuring the members of the party fund the party. Even if we are socialist, we are operating under the cloud of capitalism,” Moloi-Moropa said.
Nzimande’s Role as Minister
While Nzimande’s opposition to the GNU aligns with the SACP’s position, he defended his decision to remain in the government. “As a cadre of the movement, I fulfil my duties to the best of my ability. This does not conflict with my principles as a communist,” he said.
Mapaila supported Nzimande, emphasising his credibility and dedication. “Nzimande is an independent thinker whose commitment to the working class cannot be questioned. Calls for him to leave government are baseless and counterproductive.”
Broader Criticisms of the GNU
The SACP has framed the GNU as a product of what it calls a “capital-led plot” to weaken the ANC and force coalition governance. Mapaila alleged that large corporations, including some associated with historical inequality, have played a significant role in shaping the political landscape to favour neoliberal policies.
“Big capital’s agenda is clear: to undermine progressive movements and ensure profitability remains guaranteed for the elite,” Mapaila said, adding that the GNU risks diluting the ANC’s historical commitment to social justice.
Challenges Ahead for the SACP
As the SACP navigates its role within the alliance and prepares for independent participation in the 2026 elections, it faces significant challenges, including funding constraints and political fragmentation. Moloi-Moropa acknowledged these hurdles but remained optimistic.
“Our ideology may make it difficult to attract big-money donors, but we are committed to our principles and the people we serve,” she said.
Unity Within the Tripartite Alliance
Despite its criticism of the GNU, the SACP remains committed to its alliance with the ANC, albeit with a renewed focus on asserting its independence. The congress highlighted the need for reconfiguring the alliance to reflect the evolving political landscape and address grassroots concerns.
“This is not about splintering the ANC. It is about assessing our independence and ensuring that the alliance remains a force for progressive change,” Mapaila said.
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