Premier Lesufi urges bold action and unity at the SACP 5th Congress, highlighting the fight against unemployment, the importance of education, and addressing critical national issues like energy and land
Image: Itumeleng English / Independent Newspapers
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said the South African Communist Party's (SACP's) unwavering support for the Government of Provincial Unity came during its most trying times.
"We were demonised, insulted, and ridiculed daily," he said on Thursday, at the SACP's 5th Special National Congress in Boksburg, Ekurhuleni.
"Certain sections of the media sought to delegitimise us, but we persevered. Despite the exclusion of some political parties, our government stands strong and unwavering in its commitment to defend the poor and unemployed."
Day two of the congress saw an impressive gathering of influential figures and international guests.
Among them were former South African President Thabo Mbeki, former Minister of Home Affairs Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, mining mogul Patrice Motsepe, and representatives from global communist parties, including Sandile Xaba from the Swaziland Communist Party.
Lesufi opened his address by expressing heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the Gauteng Provincial Government for hosting the historic congress.
"It is an honour to welcome you all to Gauteng, a province that holds a special place in our liberation struggle," he said.
"The graves of icons like Chris Hani, Oliver Tambo, Albertina Sisulu, and many others are scattered across our land — serving as a constant reminder of the sacrifices made for our freedom."
Lesufi also reflected on a significant milestone: a recent event where thousands of former uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) soldiers, once forgotten and unemployed, gathered to express gratitude to the SACP and the provincial government for restoring their dignity and tackling unemployment.
This acknowledgment of their contributions was not just symbolic; it represented a turning point for many former soldiers who could now proudly declare that their days of poverty were over.
The premier also touched on the SACP's role in removing the controversial e-tolls in Gauteng, despite fierce opposition.
"When we decided to take action, those who opposed us resorted to name-calling, but the SACP, ANC, and SANCO stood with us. Together, we resolved a challenge that had burdened the people of Gauteng for far too long," Lesufi said, garnering applause from the audience.
Looking ahead, Lesufi underscored the urgency of the congress's mission: building a democratic, non-racial, non-sexist, and prosperous society.
"Our agenda is clear. Together, we've passed critical resolutions, such as the adoption of the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act, ensuring access to education as envisioned in the Freedom Charter," he declared.
The premier called on the conference to raise its voice for the children of South Africa, urging the president to allow a better education act to take effect without penalties.
"This is a defining moment. We must stand united for the sake of our children," Lesufi urged.
"As the South African Women's Party, we vow to end the discrimination and indignity our children face. Never again will a child's education be determined by the color of their skin or the language they speak."
With an eye on the future, Lesufi also warned of the broader consequences of failing to pass critical legislation.
"If we fail in this mission, the National Health Insurance (NHI) and other essential goals will also falter. Issues like energy, electricity, and land must be addressed if we are to succeed," he said.
"This is the moment for brave leaders and a strong alliance to rise. We are not children of cowards. We are the descendants of giants — like Harry Gwala, Nelson Mandela, Oliver Tambo, Albertina Sisulu, Ellen Kuzwayo, Joe Slovo, and many others who fought for justice."
Lesufi’s speech was a call for unity, action, and a collective effort to honour the legacy of those who fought for freedom and to secure a better future for all South Africans.
The congress, a gathering of allies and visionaries, is a testament to the ongoing struggle for equality, justice, and prosperity.
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