Who is really representing the poor?

Labour Q&A with Terry Bell

Fin24 user Harry Morepye is questioning the relevance of the SACP and who is really representing the working class and poor.

He writes: Do you think the ANC and SACP is still representing the working class and the poor?

Is SACP still relevant and what were their primary objectives and duties?

Terry Bell answers:

Hi Harry,

The ANC and the SACP both claim to still represent the working class and the poor. But it depends on what you mean by represent.

Many people can legitimately argue that they do not represent the interests of the working class and the poor because of the policies followed by the ANC, supported by the SACP. At the same time, however, the SACP says it really opposes many of these policies (confusing, I know, but that it how it is).

In electoral terms, the ANC/SACP has steadily lost support since 1994 and, on the basis of the last election represents fewer than 40% of the total electorate.  

However, millions of people chose not to vote and others did not even register. This is a probable reflection of disillusionment with all politicians and parties.

The SACP's medium term vision is that the party will seize control of all the leading positions in society, including the ANC and then introduce some undefined "socialism". I think this is nonsense and therefore question the continued relevance of the SACP.

Regards,

Terry

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