General Secretary of the South African Communist Party (SACP) Dr Emmanuel Bonginkosi ‘Blade’ Nzimande is stepping down as the general secretary of the SACP on the upcoming conference this weekend. Nzimande took over the position from Charles Nqakula in a conference that was held in 1998. Nzimande is the second longest serving leader of the SACP after Moses Kotane. Kotane held the position of being the general secretary for over 38 years.
Dr Nzimande disclosed the information in a media engagement session Tuesday at Cosatu House in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. The youth of SACP said that it’s about time Nzimande step down and his deputy Solly Afrika Mapaila takes over as the general secretary. It is believed that Mapaila is likely to be Nzimande’s successor after being his deputy for a long time. Nzimande made it clear that he is stepping down from the position, but not from the SACP.
Nzimande said, “ I am definitely stepping down as the general secretary of the SACP, this month I can’t remember the exact date I was elected general secretary 24 years ago. I thought it’s time for a new general secretary to take over.”
He said that the party had a huge growth regarding membership since he took over the position, saying that they were not more than 10 000 members when he became the general secretary.
“We now have over 330 000 members within the period of 24 years which is a huge growth for the Communist Party. I am glad to step down, leaving SACP that has a significant membership,” said Nzimande.
He said he believes that Solly Mapaila is definitely more than capable to become the next general secretary, but the decision depends on the Congress. He warned the person who is going to be his successor to protect the party to those who are trying to divide the Congress.
“Respect and engage with the collective leadership at all times. There are moments when you are a leader where you have to make good certain decisions or take bold steps to convince your colleagues about the corrections of what you believe in, but it is always important to listen to the collective wisdom of the leadership,” said Nzimande.
Nzimande is stepping down from his position while South African Communist Party is facing challenges of division from within and other members claim that some members are trying to change SACP to ANC.
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