As of January 2025, the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) has not announced plans to contest upcoming elections independently. Instead, COSATU continues its longstanding alliance with the African National Congress (ANC) and the South African Communist Party (SACP) within the Tripartite Alliance. In the 2024 general elections, the ANC did not secure a majority, leading to the formation of a Government of National Unity (GNU) with the Democratic Alliance (DA) and other parties.

This decision drew criticism from alliance partners, including COSATU and the SACP, who felt sidelined in the consultation process. SACP General Secretary Solly Mapaila described the GNU as a "recolonisation" of South Africa, expressing concerns over the ANC's collaboration with the DA. In response to these developments, the SACP has resolved to contest the 2026 local government elections independently, marking a significant shift in alliance dynamics. SACP spokesperson Alex Mashilo emphasized that while the party intends to exercise its democratic right to contest elections, it does not view itself as opposing the ANC.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile acknowledged the SACP's decision, stating that the ANC respects their choice and will await further details to discuss the implications for the alliance. While the SACP prepares for independent electoral participation, COSATU has not indicated any intention to follow suit. The federation remains committed to advocating for workers' rights and influencing policy through its alliance with the ANC and the SACP. In its 2024 year-end statement, COSATU highlighted achievements such as the implementation of the Two-Pot retirement system, which provided financial relief to nearly 2 million indebted workers.

In summary, as of now, COSATU does not plan to contest upcoming elections independently but continues to engage with its alliance partners to address challenges and advocate for workers' interests within the existing political framework.