When communists arrange an international conference, it seems, good old-fashioned capitalism is welcomed and all participants are, in fact, not equal.
The SA Communist Party (SACP) on Wednesday sent out invitations to what it bills as "The African Participatory Democracy Conference", to be hosted - for a fee - in Soweto on August 16.
Delegates are invited to purchase a gala dinner table for prices ranging from the princely sum of R150 000 for a place at the main table - hosted by ANC president Jacob Zuma - to R50 000 for a seat at the table of lesser political mortals such as education minister Naledi Pandor and Johannesburg Mayor Amos Masondo.
Finance Minister Trevor Manuel ranks second on the VIP list with a R100 000 price tag.
Organisers say this will provide a platform for "networking, sharing of ideas, learning and imparting knowledge, the possibility to influence discussions and the potential for self-development".
Special arrangements have been made for the capitalist class, who will be afforded the opportunity to "sell their wares" at an exhibition hall for the duration of the conference. Companies will pay R5 000 for this privilege and be provided with coffee - "only during scheduled coffee breaks" - electricity (organisers do not guarantee uninterrupted supply), and a single table with two chairs.
Ordinary delegates will be asked to pay a once-off registration fee of R500...
full story from IOL here
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