Gauteng ANC and SACP media statement
31 July 2012
The Provincial Working Committees (PWCs) of the African National Congress (ANC) and the South African Communist Party (SACP) in the Gauteng Province held a bilateral meeting on the 30th July 2012 to discuss various political issues of mutual interest. The meeting noted that the bilateral talks took place after the ANC National Policy Conference and SACP Provincial and National Congress. It further noted the recent cabinet reshuffle in the Gauteng Provincial government, therefore it was agreed that all the developments had significant impact on the political landscape of the province. Consequently, they formed part of the background to the meeting.
Both ANC and SACP appreciated as the principal and primary political formations of the alliance that they have the greater responsibility to push the program of National Democratic Revolution collectively. As a result, the two parties reaffirmed the importance of ongoing close political relations and collective responsibility to strengthen the alliance.
The meeting noted that the structures had been functioning well despite the challenges at operational level. The bilateral meeting was characterized by matured, vibrant, robust debates underpinned by mutual respect and genuine comradeship. The debates were constructive and have strengthened the collective fortitude to build unity and strong organizations to tackle poverty, unemployment and inequalities in the Province.
It was resolved that both parties would continue to mobilize society in programmes that would not only accelerate change but improve the lives of the people. The leadership of the two organizations further rededicated themselves to pursuing shared theory, programme and strategic vision. Amongst key critical issues to be pursued is to build systematic protocols in the functioning of the alliance to ensure consistency and predictability in the implementation of programmes. The bilateral re-affirmed that the ANC is the strategic centre of power, while the Alliance remains the central political force in the ongoing struggle for the transformation of the state and the society.
The bilateral meeting also agreed that at all levels the ANC and SACP will continue to defend the unity and cohesion of the Alliance in Gauteng Province. It was further agreed that all individual members and leaders of both organizations must work together in a manner that is underpinned by principles such selflessness, mutual respect, honesty and commitment to serve the people with integrity.
In conclusion, the parties agreed to reconvene a full two days meeting in September 2012 to deal with the following issues:
- Developing an agenda for decent jobs across different sectors of the provincial economy,
- Deepening social and economic transformation,
- Driving programmes to ensure state transformation,
- The acceleration of programmes to enhance quality public education and health in the Province,
- Development of the framework document on building a strong and functioning Alliance in the Province,
- Development of a joint and common programme of action for the Alliance the Province.
- Preparations for the 2014 elections.
Release by: Cde David Makhura - ANC Provincial Secretary and Cde Jacob Mamabolo - SACP Provincial Secretary
For more information contact Dumisa Ntuli 0715260598 OR 011 227 9303
