# Former president Thabo Mbeki has cautioned that a direct electoral challenge by the South African Communist Party against the ANC in the 2026 municipal elections could spark confrontation between the two longstanding allies. This comes after SACP spokesperson Mbulelo Mandlana affirmed that the party still regards the ANC as a partner, despite plans to contest independently. Mbeki urged the SACP to contest as socialists instead, warning against undermining the tripartite alliance.
Mbeki warns of clash if SACP contests ANC in 2026 elections