20 June 2000
The South African parliament today passed an important motion marking the 50th anniversary of the passing of the Suppression of Communism Act by the apartheid parliament. This Act was not only used to persecute communists, it was also used against all thos e who fought apartheid. This led to many communists and non-communists alike facing increased repression and risks to their lives and well being. Amongst these was Comrade Braam Fischer, an Afrikaner who was especially hated by apartheid for being a commun ist and a fighter for justice. Up to this day, apartheid has ensured that we still have not found his ashes for burying with his family.
Forty years after banning us, the apartheid regime was forced to concede that it could never uproot communist organisation and ideas from the soil of South Africa. The motion passed by the South African parliament today emphasises that - never again should South Africa tolerate the persecution of individuals for their ideological beliefs.
Ironically, exactly 50 years since we were banned, the SACP is growing stronger and part of the democratic government, whilst the National Party (which led the apartheid government which banned us) is the one that is actually dying.
As the SACP, we are proud of our record and contribution in the struggle against apartheid and current struggles for the transformation of society. The red flag continues to fly even higher and socialism remains a popular and just cause.
CONTACT
Mazibuko K. Jara (surname Jara)
Department of Media,Information & Publicity
South African Communist Party
Tel: 27 11 339-3621/2
Fax: 27 11 339-4244
Cell: 083 651 0271
Email: sacp1@wn.apc.org