# The South African Communist Party says it still views the ANC as a partner, despite plans to contest the 2026 local government elections independently. Spokesperson Mbulelo Mandlana told the SABC News that the alliance is rooted in a broader political programme beyond elections. Mandlana admitted the ANC-SACP task team is still in its early stages. He said public criticism of the ANC is necessary to foster accountability and mutual respect:
SACP reaffirms alliance with ANC despite 2026 election participation [SOUND]
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