SCHWEIZER-RENEKE, North West — The South African Communist Party (SACP) has commenced its North West manifesto launch in Schweizer-Reneke, marking a pivotal moment as the party prepares to contest the upcoming November 4 local government elections independently, outside of the ANC alliance for the first time. Headlined by SACP General Secretary Solly Mapaila, the landmark event underscores the party’s renewed strategy to prioritize immediate, grassroots service delivery and democratic renewal across the province.
Ahead of the official provincial manifesto launch scheduled for next week, the party initiated a seven-day “manifesto week” buildup program in the Mamusa Local Municipality. The SACP North West Provincial Secretary Smuts Matshe emphasized that the party is moving beyond traditional campaign promises by actively resolving community issues before election day.
“We don’t just tell people what we will do if they elect us. We start now,” the Provincial Secretary stated, highlighting severe service delivery failures in the largely rural area. According to the party, residents currently face prolonged electricity outages lasting up to three months, critical water shortages, deteriorating road infrastructure, rampant illegal dumping, and a stark lack of employment opportunities.
In direct response to these challenges, the SACP has scheduled immediate intervention processes. These initiatives include the establishment of community food gardens and organized morning walks to promote healthy, active lifestyles. The party is also paying homage to the region’s rich political heritage by visiting the families of local liberation stalwarts, including those of Wesley Mthlapa and others who sacrificed for the country’s freedom.
Demonstrating a commitment to community-driven leadership, the Provincial Secretary revealed that the party’s candidate list features a local priest. Despite not being a formal member of the Communist Party, the priest was selected as a candidate due to strong backing from his congregation, who believe he is best positioned to rescue democracy and restore dignity in Mamusa.
The SACP has confirmed it will contest all 402 wards across the North West province, including 42 wards within the Mamusa Local Municipality, as part of a broader national campaign targeting over 4,000 wards. The party’s ultimate goal is to secure SACP councillors in every municipal council, with the number of seats won dependent on working-class voter mobilization and consciousness.
However, the party faces an uphill battle against voter apathy. While some residents expressed hope for tangible change, others voiced deep disillusionment, citing years of neglected basic services and a lack of job opportunities in Schweizer-Reneke as reasons for boycotting the ballot.
To counter this sentiment, the SACP aims to let its actions speak louder than words. The party plans to conclude its seven-day buildup with a comprehensive community feedback session next weekend, showcasing the tangible work completed and reinforcing its pledge to deploy highly capable, ethical councillors who will restore public confidence and basic services.
