PRETORIA — In a decisive move ahead of the municipal polls, Solly Mapaila has announced that the SACP will not field candidates for local election positions, a strategic pivot aimed at eradicating political patronage and flawed cadre deployment within the ranks.
The South African Communist Party’s General Secretary emphasized that political office must be treated strictly as public service rather than a vehicle for personal wealth. He strongly advised against selecting friends for leadership roles based on personal familiarity, warning that when political positions become the primary source of personal livelihood, it inevitably breeds corruption, gatekeeping, and systemic favoritism.
To counter these dangers during the current municipal voting cycle, the party has opted out of competing for governmental seats entirely. Mapaila stressed that this specific era requires a highly united organization, disciplined cadres, and deeply committed leadership. He urged members to abandon self-serving mentalities, cautioning against the attitude of insisting “I am the only leader” or demanding to be the sole candidate.
Instead of internal gatekeeping, the leadership is calling for the elevation of the most capable individuals within their communities to drive meaningful service delivery. By reinforcing internal party discipline, Mapaila believes they can restore public trust and construct a municipal system that is ethical, developmental, and fully accountable. Ultimately, the focus must remain firmly rooted in the aspirations and needs of the poor and the working class.
Highlighting the philosophical core of this strategy, Mapaila noted that true revolutionary change starts internally, stating that the revolution begins with the transformation of society but equally requires the transformation of oneself. Touching upon the broader organizational renewal, he also referenced a recent social media interview conducted that same morning with comrade Rebecca, where they discussed the ongoing revitalization efforts within the party.