gwede mantashe sacp

Gwede Mantashe has been removed from the South African Communist Party (SACP) Central Committee after repeatedly missing meetings, which violated the organization’s constitutional rules regarding attendance[1]. The SACP’s first deputy general secretary, Madala Masuku, stated that while the party understood Mantashe’s commitments as the African National Congress (ANC) national chairperson and his role as minister, the party could not make an exception to its regulations[1].

This decision was formally announced by the SACP in Johannesburg, highlighting that party rules stipulate members cannot be absent from more than three consecutive central committee meetings. Mantashe’s continued absence, despite verbal communication indicating his situation, led to the enforcement of this rule and his removal[1].

The development is seen as an escalation in tensions between the SACP and the ANC, as Mantashe holds a senior role within the ANC and serves as Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources[6]. He had been a part of both the SACP’s leadership structures since at least 2007 and had served various leadership roles across South African political organizations[2][5].

Recent reports emphasize the SACP’s insistence on organizational discipline. They clarified the removal was due to constitutional clauses and not due to any political fallout, reiterating that even senior figures are subject to the party’s rules[1][6]. Media briefings and reports also noted that the SACP understands the pressure of Mantashe’s concurrent duties but stressed the need for active participation in party structures[3][7].

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