ANC says it won't abandon its left-wing, socialist principles within GNU

JOHANNESBURG - The African National Congress (ANC) says it will not abandon its left-wing, socialist principles within the Government of National Unity (GNU).

The party says it’s aware it is working with parties in the GNU who are ideologically opposite to its values and principles.

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ANC deputy president Paul Mashatile spoke at the South African Communist Party's (SACP) 5th special national congress in Boksburg

Just like Panyaza Lesufi on Thursday, Mashatile was greeted with an anti-GNU song by SACP delegates.

Mashatile said forming the GNU was not ideal, however, it was the best strategy for the ANC after losing its majority.

Mashatile said the ANC will not lose itself within the GNU.

 “We have decided though, at the moment, we will try and use it to try and assist us to continue to advance the struggle to achieve a national democratic society as envisioned in the freedom charter.”

In its discussion documents, the SACP said the ANC could no longer be trusted to advance the left-wing, transformative agenda.