PRETORIA — Solly Mapaila has cautioned against cadre deployment favoritism, warning that appointing party members based on personal familiarity poses severe risks to public service. As the local government elections approach, the SACP General Secretary stressed the critical need for disciplined cadres and announced that the party will not contest for positions in the upcoming polls.
Mapaila emphasized that politics must be viewed as a form of public service rather than a means for personal livelihood. He urged the party to prioritize capable leaders of the people over friends and acquaintances, noting that turning political office into a primary source of income opens the door to patronage, corruption, and gatekeeping.
Because of these dangers, the communist party has made the strategic decision not to compete for positions in the current local government cycle. Mapaila explained that this period demands a united organization, committed leadership, and highly disciplined cadres. He encouraged members to look beyond themselves, moving away from an “I am the only leader or candidate” mentality. Instead, the party must avoid gatekeeping and allow the most capable individuals from the community to step forward to serve and save the people.
To achieve this, Mapaila highlighted the necessity of strengthening internal discipline and the party as a whole. This, he argued, will enhance public service delivery and restore public confidence. The ultimate goal is to build a local government that is accountable, developmental, and ethical, firmly rooted in the needs and aspirations of the working class and the poor.
“The revolution begins with the transformation of society, but it also begins with the transformation of ourselves,” Mapaila stated, reinforcing the idea that true political service requires personal integrity. He reminded attendees that politics is public service, urging them not to choose friends but to select capable leaders.
In a related discussion on the party’s renewal, Mapaila referenced a recent brief interview he conducted with comrade Rebecca on one of their social media pages, where they shared insights on the ongoing renewal efforts within the organization.