Gwede MantasheRemoved from the SACP Central Committee Amid Rising Tensions with the ANC: A Procedural Exit with Political Undertones

ANC National Chairperson Gwede Mantashe axed from SACP Central Committee.

In a move that sent shockwaves through South Africa's political circles, Gwede Mantashe, the national chairperson of the African National Congress (ANC), was removed from the Central Committee of the South African Communist Party (SACP).

The decision, confirmed by Madala Masuku, the SACP's First Deputy General Secretary, stemmed from Mantashe's consistent absence from crucial SACP Central Committee meetings without apology.

This procedural exit, however, is laden with political undertones that reflect the growing strains between the SACP and the ANC, longtime allies now navigating increasingly complex dynamics.

Mantashe, a veteran politician with significant influence, seemingly didn't prioritize SACP commitments, sparking debate about his overcommitment and possible arrogance.

His dual roles as ANC national chairperson and Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources in the Government of National Unity likely contributed to his unavailability, but the SACP saw his lack of apology as a breach of party norms. "Comrade Mantashe consistently missed meetings. When spoken to, he explained he was dealing with complex situations within the ANC. We understood that. But the issue was that he was not sending any apologies," Masuku remarked, underscoring the SACP's emphasis on accountability and participation.

The removal unfolds against a backdrop of escalating tensions between the SACP and ANC. The SACP has announced plans to contest the 2026 local elections independently, marking a significant shift away from its traditional alliance with the ANC.

This strategic move signals potential realignment in South Africa's political landscape, reflecting deeper ideological and strategic divergences. SACP General Secretary Solly Mapaila has been vocal about the ANC's "arrogance" and failure to treat alliance discussions seriously. "We had an opportunity to manage things differently, but the ANC was arrogant. Even in meetings, they didn’t take our proposals seriously," Mapaila said, highlighting longstanding frustrations within the SACP about being respected as an equal partner.

Mantashe's perceived lack of respect for SACP processes – evident in his absence without apology – likely fueled perceptions of arrogance, exacerbating alliance tensions. His prominent roles might have contributed to an image of being detached from party accountability mechanisms.

The SACP's push for respect and equality contrasts sharply with perceived ANC overreach, reflecting complex dynamics within South Africa's political alliances. Observers note this isn't merely a personal issue but symptomatic of broader fractures within the Tripartite Alliance involving the ANC, SACP, and Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU).

The implications of Mantashe's removal and the SACP's independent electoral path are significant. With elections looming, these tensions might reshape voter alignments and alliances.

The SACP's decision could invigorate its distinct identity, impacting the ANC's relevance amid rising competition from opposition parties like the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and Democratic Alliance (DA). Pressing issues like unemployment, crime prevention, economic policy, and land reform dominate voter concerns in South Africa, adding complexity to the political calculus.

As South Africa navigates this uncertain terrain, Mantashe's exit serves as a wake-up call for leaders to prioritize transparency, accountability, and commitment. Whether seen as a symptom of broader alliance strains or an assertion of SACP independence, the move underscores shifting power dynamics in South African politics.

The SACP's resolve to contest elections independently – they've already participated in recent by-elections – showcases their determination to carve a distinct path, potentially recalibrating the country's political trajectory ahead of the 2026 local elections.