Tensions within the Tripartite Alliance have escalated, with the South African Communist Party confirming it will contest the 2026 local government elections independently. The African National Congress has pushed back - saying it cannot allow members to belong to parties that compete against it. The developments mark one of the most significant strains in the alliance in recent years. The SACP says its decision follows a breakdown in engagements with the ANC, including failed attempts to agree on how alliance partners should approach the 2026 elections. It has accused the ANC of issuing ultimatums and taking what it calls an "anti-communist" stance. For analysis Jon Gericke spoke to Political Analyst , Professor Ntsikelelo Breakfast from the Nelson Mandela University