POLOKWANE – Divisions within the tripartite alliance between the ANC, SACP and Cosatu were laid bare during the Workers’ Day rally held at the old Peter Mokaba Stadium in the city on Friday.

Although the May 1 event was intended to celebrate workers’ contributions and reinforce unity within the alliance, speeches by senior leaders were overshadowed by political tension, particularly following the SACP’s decision to contest the 2026 local government elections independently.

ANC gives ultimatum on dual membership

The move has triggered a response from the ANC, which has issued an ultimatum requiring members with dual membership to choose between the two organisations.

ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu said the decision was aimed at “ensuring the house of the ANC is clean going into campaign season” and protecting the party’s constitution.

SACP rejects directive

SACP provincial spokesperson in Limpopo, Charley Nkadimeng, however, told Polokwane Observer that the directive should not be seen as intimidation, saying it had been rejected internally and that discussions were underway to stabilise relations within the alliance.

“We are realistic that those in leadership positions in the ANC are unlikely to campaign or contest elections in favour of the Communist Party because of what the ANC can provide for them,” Nkadimeng said.

He added that adjustments within SACP leadership structures would allow the party to function independently ahead of the elections.

New leadership to be elected 

Nkadimeng also noted that several senior SACP leaders in Limpopo hold positions in the ANC, which he said had affected the party’s operational focus.

“Many have not been able to focus on SACP work due to their commitments in the ANC,” he said.

He confirmed that the SACP’s provincial congress later this month would elect new leadership to strengthen organisational capacity, while maintaining that dual membership remains a complex but manageable issue within the alliance.

ANC deputy president Paul Mashatile, addressing the rally, reiterated that the alliance remains the “best vehicle” to advance workers’ interests, despite acknowledged internal challenges.

Cosatu affiliates express dissatisfaction

Underlying tension over economic policy direction, municipal coalition arrangements, and the pace of transformation, however, remained visible, with some Cosatu affiliates expressing dissatisfaction from the stadium stands and calling for a review of the federation’s relationship with the ANC ahead of future elections.