Opportunism or Political Virus?

By Apson Sepadi Makaung

It is no longer a matter of political game theory, but a display of unbecoming political conduct that undermines not only the families of those who swelled the ranks of our revolutionary ancestors, but the South African nation at large.

On Sunday, the 5th of April 2026, the political parties displayed questionable conduct by organising parallel events in Mamelodi instead of displaying a unity to honor Cde Solomon Mahlangu who was a becon of unity.

Today, the 8th of April 2026, some of the ANC – SACP allinace members undermined the will of Comrade Chris Hani’s family at his graveside.

When the City of Ekurhuleni began taking the lead in Chris Hani commemorations, some of us cautioned that the name of Chris Hani must not be downgraded to municipal level.

Chris Hani was a national figure, and his name must not in any way be bureaucratized.

What the ANC inclusive of its leagues and the ANCYL together with the SACP did at Comrade Chris Hani’s grave today is not merely an embarrassment.

It is a shameful act that disrespects the life and legacy of Comrade Chris Hani.

This cannot be dismissed as simple opportunism.

It is a **political virus** one that has not been vaccinated against by the leadership of these two parties, who remain preoccupied with factional battles disguised under the pretext of “honouring former revolutionaries.”

Solomon Mahlangu, Chris Hani, and all comrades who were killed by the apartheid regime must not be relegated to sectional formations.

They did not fight for a faction.

They fought for the liberation of the people of South Africa as a whole.

In that spirit, the ANC and SACP must learn to respect the families of those who have died, honour the memory of our ancestors, and above all, respect the people of South Africa at large.