Tripartite alliance, Sanco to hold summit tomorrow

The tripartite alliance is holding a summit with Sanco in Midrand tomorrow

The table is set for fierce debate when the tripartite alliance and South African National Civic Organisation (Sanco) summit gets underway in Midrand tomorrow. More tough talks are expected over the next three days.

One of the main issues that could see sparks fly is Cosatu's call for an election pact. It would entail a fundamental restructuring of the alliance. The ruling party, however, is against the idea.

During the last meeting in 2005, tensions ran high. The SA Communist Party (SACP) and Cosatu want the alliance to be restructured. Past experience has shown unfulfilled election promises. A pact could bring some guarantees.

Cosatu’s General-Secretary Zwelinzima Vavi says: “We do need an agreement, which includes issues of governance so that all of us can make a commitment that we can be held accountable ...”

Sanco backs ANC
The ANC is, however, steering away from binding documents such as an alliance constitution. ANC Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe says: “Pacts are for coalitions because coalitions are in three parts -- one how you put them together, how you sustain them and how you dissolve them and therefore, you need binding document.”

Meanwhile, the ANC is being backed by Sanco. Sanco President Mlungisi Hlongwane says: “We believe that there is no need for anything of a protocol nature.”

Other issues on the agenda are support for ANC President Jacob Zuma, especially during his trial in August; the arms deal; Special Brows “Mole” Report; the relocation of the Scorpions and the SABC Board.

Cosatu and the SACP are more in tune with the new ANC guard. But they are likely to pile even more pressure on the ruling party, pursuing their pro-poor policies.