Overview
The South African Communist Party (SACP) is holding a three‑day “Conference of the Left” in Boksburg, Ekurhuleni, from Friday to Sunday. The event aims to unite left‑wing and working‑class groups, strengthen political education, and plan coordinated action. Although the ANC was invited, it has decided not to attend, saying the gathering does not represent a true leftist forum.
What the Conference Is About
- Goal: Build unity among leftist organisations, improve political education, and create a shared agenda for the working class.
- Topics: Anti‑austerity measures, cost‑of‑living crisis, workers’ rights, and how to challenge current government policies.
- Organisers: SACP, with support from Cosatu and various left‑wing groups.
ANC’s Reaction
- ANC Secretary‑General Fikile Mbalula called the conference “not genuinely leftist” and described it as a generic discussion forum.
- The party said the attendee list does not reflect a true left‑wing composition.
- SACP leaders accused the ANC of arrogance and division, pointing to growing tension since the formation of the Government of National Unity (GNU).
What Analysts Say
Dr Bernard Sebake (CUT)
- Sees the conference as a move by the left to act independently because of strains in the tripartite alliance (ANC, SACP, Cosatu).
- Believes the gathering could solidify a left‑wing agenda and pressure the ANC to refocus on working‑class issues.
- Notes that the ANC’s declining electoral support and failure to redefine the alliance have heightened tensions.
Solly Rashilo (political analyst)
- Says the ANC’s refusal shows trust within the alliance is at an all‑time low.
- Views the conference as a possible launchpad for an extra‑parliamentary “left popular front” focused on anti‑austerity and living‑cost struggles.
- Points out that the ANC is moving toward market‑friendly, centrist politics, while the SACP accuses it of a rightward, neoliberal shift.
Who’s Attending
- Confirmed: Cosatu, EFF, MK Party, Afrika Mayibuye Movement, PAC, Azapo, United Africans Transformation, Numsa, various NGOs, and left‑wing activists.
- Not Attending: Saftu (has said it will not participate).
- Expected Speakers: Julius Malema (EFF), Nathi Nhleko (MK Party), and Floyd Shivambu (former EFF deputy president and Afrika Mayibuye leader).
Why It Matters for Teens and Young People
- The conference could shape future policies on jobs, education grants, and housing—issues that directly affect young South Africans.
- If left‑wing groups succeed in coordinating, they may push for higher minimum wages, better public services, and more support for students and unemployed youth.
- The split between the ANC and its traditional allies shows how political alliances can change, reminding young voters to stay informed about who represents their interests.
Conclusion
Despite the ANC’s boycott, the “Conference of the Left” has the potential to produce real political outcomes. By bringing together a range of left‑wing organisations, the event could create a unified voice for workers and the poor, challenge current government direction, and influence upcoming local elections in 2026. Whether it leads to lasting change or deepens existing divisions will depend on how well the participants turn discussion into concrete action.
