"Communists have always played an active role in the fight by colonial countries for their freedom, because the short-term objects of Communism would always correspond with the long-term objects of freedom movements"

Nelson Mandela observes that communist activists consistently participated in anti-colonial struggles because the goals of Communism in the immediate term aligned with the broader ambitions of independence movements. He identifies an intersection of interests: communists, motivated perhaps by their internationalist ideology and opposition to imperialism, supported the efforts of colonized peoples seeking liberation from oppressive regimes. Regardless of deeper ideological differences, both groups shared a common enemy in colonial powers, and both desired to dismantle systems of exploitation and subjugation.

Communism, as propounded by its adherents, aimed to oppose structures that fostered inequality and domination, characteristics intrinsic to colonial rule. The call for self-determination and equality resonated with freedom fighters, making support from communists not just welcome, but mutually beneficial. Mandela suggests that, in the practical reality of decolonization, theoretical disagreements between various groups were often set aside to unify against a more pressing adversary. While the ultimate visions for post-liberation society may have diverged, communists envisioning socialist states, nationalists or other freedom fighters perhaps pursuing different forms of governance, the overlap of short-term objectives forged alliances on the battlefield and at negotiation tables.

Furthermore, Mandela's reflection emphasizes the nuance of historical alliances. He resists oversimplification, acknowledging both appreciation for communist solidarity and the distinctions between communist ideology and the broader spectrum of anti-colonial movements. Many liberation movements, including the African National Congress, benefited from these pragmatic partnerships. Communists provided ideological support, training, and material aid, recognizing the moral and political imperative of ending colonial domination. Mandela’s analysis underlines a strategic dynamic: that solidarity was born less from identical long-term visions and more from convergence around immediate goals of liberation. In this way, anti-colonial history becomes not merely a tale of unified ideology, but of temporary alliances founded on common aspirations for freedom and justice.