January 5, 2024

Itikadi: Socialism, Theory, and Practice

Itikadi stands as the theoretical cornerstone of the Communist Party of Kenya. The most recent edition, Itikadi 5 (2023), has been officially launched on our party website and is available via the following link:

https://www.communistpartyofkenya.org/ITIKADI/Itikadi%205%20Socialism%20Theory%20and%20Practice%20.pdf

Consistently maintaining principled and militant positions on both national and international fronts, Itikadi addresses critical issues amidst the current global imperialist crisis. These include the proxy NATO war in Ukraine, the persistent genocide in Gaza, and regional conflicts across Africa. Closer to home, Kenya grapples with an acute economic and political crisis as the ruling class seeks solutions. 

Functioning as the theoretical organ of the Communist Party of Kenya, Itikadi 5 serves as a platform for critical analysis and ideological fortification amid a world experiencing ideological and psychological turmoil. This is underscored by an ongoing rectification program within our ranks, aimed at countering opportunism and revisionism. 

This volume delves into the detrimental effects of neoliberal policies imposed on the Kenyan people, scrutinising the IMF's role as an economic hitman. We expose the tribal nature of Kenyan politics, take a clear stance on the National Question, and articulate our party's position on nationalism. The article on privatisation as theft unmasks the deceptive practices of the ruling class behind failing state-owned enterprises. 

Our focus transcends borders, challenging the capitalist narrative of Pan-Africanism. We advocate for a united and liberated Africa rooted in scientific socialism, countering exploitation and consumerism. Itikadi 5 initiates a debate on the role of religion in party building, echoing Kwame Nkrumah's belief in students as the spark of revolution. We reflect on our student movement, defining our voice in the broader societal struggle. 

Within the solidarity sections, we stand with the youth league against the genocide in Gaza and express support for global popular struggles. Perspectives from the Communist Party of Venezuela, reflections from Dar-Es-Salaam on Magufuli's legacy, and insights from Gambia enrich our understanding. 

Comrades, in this volume, Itikadi is not merely a publication; it is a call to action. As we confront the challenges of our time, let this be a guide for collective understanding, a call for action, and an unwavering commitment to the ideals of communism. 

This extraordinary edition of Itikadi presents a structured exploration of critical themes, divided into four parts for an accessible and insightful reading experience.

1. Ideology:

At the core of our ideological foundation, we confront the effects of neoliberal policies imposed on the Kenyan people, advocating for a systemic shift from capitalism to socialism. Unpack the Kenyan National Question, demystifying unity talks and exposing the tribal nature of our politics. Engage with the argument that privatisation is theft, revealing the falsehoods perpetuated by the ruling class to privatise public resources.

2. Reports from the Central Organizing Committee of the Majority:

This section opens a window into the workings of our party. Learn about the rectification program addressing opportunism and revisionism within our ranks. Join the debate on the role of religion in party building and revisit the student movement's history to define our voice in the broader societal struggle.

3. Tributes:

This segment pays homage to the revolutionary spirit that guides us. Reflect on Kwame Nkrumah's assertion that students are the spark of the revolution and gain clarity on our voice in student communities. Honour the ongoing struggle with tributes to those who have shaped our movement.

4. Solidarity and World Socialism:

 The final part extends our vision beyond borders. Stand in solidarity with the youth league against the genocide in Gaza and express support for global popular struggles. Gain diverse perspectives from the Communist Party of Venezuela, reflections from Dar Es Salaam on Magufuli's legacy, and insights from Gambia. Engage with the revived spirit of Pan-Africanism, positioning scientific socialism at the centre of discussions on a united and liberated Africa.

Comrades, in structuring Itikadi 5 in these four parts, we aim to provide a comprehensive and engaging platform for our readers. Against the backdrop of global challenges, may this edition serve not only as a publication but as a guide for collective understanding, a call for action, and an unwavering commitment to the ideals of communism.

In solidarity,

Editors