Tripartite Alliance partners can still find each other: Analyst

Despite fears that tensions in the Tripartite Alliance could mark the beginning of the end of the historical pact, political analysts believe the alliance can still be saved.

Analyst also believe that ANC, COSATU and SACP pact will be tested at next month’s municipal polls.

Tension among the alliance partners surfaced at the COSATU national congress earlier this week.

ANC National Chairperson Gwede Mantashe walked out of the congress, protesting against the ANC being billed to speak before the SACP and SANCO.

He insisted on speaking at the end, saying it’s in keeping with the alliance’s traditions.

But newly elected COSATU President Mike Shingange has warned the ANC and the SACP that the federation will actively lead the alliance, rather than follow passively.

The election pact between the ANC, COSATU and the SACP, that has lasted for over three decades, is seemingly on the rocks.

Their political dissent stems from the lack of the reconfiguration of the alliance.

And this among other things, has prompted the SACP to field its own candidates in next month’s local government elections.

But it seems some alliance leaders are frustrated.

Even speaking first or last at each other’s gatherings, also became a bone of contention.

Earlier this week, the high-level ANC delegation led by party National Chair, Gwede Mantashe, failed to deliver its message of support to the COSATU national congress, after insisting on speaking last.

“The message is, you don’t distort the alliance for convenience.

You never distort their lives for convenience.