McDonald Sibuyi, the newly elected Lawrence Phokanoka District Secretary.
The South African Communist Party (SACP) in the Lawrence Phokanoka District has successfully concluded its highly anticipated 9th District Congress.
The event, which took place on May 17, 2026, was held at the Love Life Hall in Lenyenye. Delegates from across the region gathered under a bold and revolutionary theme: “Renew, Rebuild and Advance Working Class Power for the 2026 Local Government Elections.”
The congress offered a vital space for members to reflect deeply on the current political and organizational challenges facing the region. Delegates spent time discussing the daily hardships experienced by the working class and poor communities. There was a collective agreement that the party must return to its roots to address these issues effectively. To achieve this, the congress reaffirmed the party’s commitment to rebuilding strong branches on the ground and intensifying mass struggles. Leaders noted that advancing working class power is the only way to ensure real change in the upcoming elections.
The timing of the congress is critical. The SACP is currently preparing to contest the 2026 local government elections under its own banner. By reinforcing its structures in areas like Lenyenye, the party is sending a clear message that it is ready to fight for the rights of ordinary citizens who feel left behind by the current governance systems.
A key highlight of the event was the democratic election of the new District Executive Committee. The delegates selected a capable team of leaders to guide the district through the upcoming election campaign. Comrade Mcdonald Sibuyi was elected as the District Secretary, while Comrade Nelson “Nel” Ramokgola will take up the position of District Chairperson. The crucial role of District Treasurer went to Comrade Molate Mokgwaripa. Joining the top leadership are Comrade Mpule Mahlako as the District Deputy Secretary and Comrade Reckson “Rex” Chabalala as the District Deputy Chairperson.
To support this core executive team, the congress also elected twelve additional committee members to ensure broad representation across the district. The additional members are Comrades Thabo Ramalekana, Cassius Mokube, Refilwe Nakana, and Meriam Mbewe. Also joining the collective are Comrades Obed Mashumu, Timothy Malepe, Liynet Mathebula, and Maureen Ndlovu. The leadership group is completed by Comrades Lebogang Makhubele, Mokone Maake, Sizwe Mametja, and Beauty Shiviti. This diverse collective will be tasked with executing the resolutions of the congress and managing daily party operations.
As the congress concluded, the newly elected leadership issued an energetic call to action. They urged all communists, workers, youth, women, and progressive forces in the region to unite and stand together. The SACP has called on these groups to rally firmly behind the party in the coming local government elections. With a fresh leadership collective and a clear mandate from its members, the Lawrence Phokanoka District is ready to take its message of renewal straight to the ballot box.
Dr Chuene Malebana, SACP Limpopo Provincial Secretary, addressing the District Congress.