A solemn commemoration for Joe Slovo erupted into a stark public display of the deepening rift within South Africa’s ruling Tripartite Alliance on Tuesday. The event, marking the 31st anniversary of the former South African Communist Party (SACP) General Secretary’s passing, highlighted the escalating tensions between the African National Congress (ANC) and its left-wing ally over the SACP’s decision to contest upcoming local government elections independently.
The atmosphere at the Soweto event was described as tense, with moments of open discord overshadowing the intended unity. The SACP used the platform to sharpen its critique of the ANC, accusing it of abandoning the foundational values of the liberation struggle.
SACP leadership articulated a position of “working-class political independence,” framing the electoral move not as hostility but as a necessary stance within the alliance. A party spokesperson argued the decision was essential for “building real unity, not unity of silence in the face of corruption and even betrayal.” The SACP’s grievances center on allegations that the ANC has embraced neoliberal economic policies, failed to decisively tackle corruption, and presided over worsening inequality and unemployment.
In a forceful response, an ANC representative at the commemoration warned that the Communist Party’s independent electoral bid would be a “historic mistake.” The ANC spokesperson stated the move would “weaken the alliance” and “distract our people,” potentially risking the loss of state power. The blunt criticism underscored the ANC’s clear alarm at the prospect of competing directly with its alliance partner for votes.
Political analysts observing the event noted the tensions reflect profound structural issues within the decades-old alliance. They pointed out that while other leftist allies like COSATU and SANCO reaffirmed support for the SACP’s right to contest elections, all parties expressed a desire to keep the alliance intact amid a shifting political terrain. The commemoration, they said, laid bare the complex and confused state of the partnership.
The public airing of these grievances at an event honoring Joe Slovo—a figure celebrated for his commitment to alliance unity—was seen as particularly symbolic. As South Africa approaches a critical electoral chapter, the event has raised urgent questions about the alliance’s ability to recalibrate its relationship or whether the ideological gulf between the ANC and SACP will continue to widen.