SOUTH AFRICA — The South African Communist Party (SACP) has successfully navigated the 2026 local government elections as an independent entity, securing over 260 council seats across South Africa. The party’s decision to contest independently yielded more than 700,000 votes nationally. Despite facing criticism in some quarters for breaking away from its alliance partner, the African National Congress (ANC), SACP spokespersons maintained that the strategic shift was essential to advocate for a better life for the working class.
In the Northern Cape province, the SACP won 13 council seats. Following the results, party representatives confirmed that coalition negotiations in the region are not restricted solely to the ANC. Spokespersons stated they are engaging a broad spectrum of like-minded parties, including ZAPO and PS, alongside the ANC. They noted that while the ANC retains the highest number of votes in all Northern Cape municipalities, there is one exception: Postmasburg, Tsantsabane Local Municipality
SACP spokespersons expressed humility regarding the more than 23,000 votes they received in the Northern Cape, emphasizing that the voter support is not taken for granted. Representatives highlighted that their campaign platform focused strictly on improving local living conditions without relying on external financial backing. They pointed out a significant disparity in campaign resources, noting that the Democratic Alliance (DA) was given 200 million in funding, whereas the SACP received nothing from any external source.
The electoral effort was driven entirely by the working class, according to the party. Spokespersons explained that volunteers from the “Red Brigades” and “red candidates” financed their campaigns by taking as little as possible from their own pockets. Looking ahead, the party confirmed that discussions have already begun regarding its independent participation in both the national and provincial elections in 2029.
