Coni Ledesma, NDFP Negotiating Panel Member and MAKIBAKA International Representative
November 30, 2024
As we conclude this two-day conference, I want to express my deepest gratitude to all of you for your active participation, insightful contributions, and commitment to the struggles we collectively face. This gathering has been a testament to the importance of creating spaces for dialogue among socialist-proletarian parties, national liberation struggles, anti-imperialist organizations and even governments as3sertive of their independence from imperialism.
Over the past two days, we have discussed the diverse conditions of struggle across the globe, from the occupation and resistance in Palestine and Kurdistan, to the people’s war in the Philippines, and even to the struggles within advanced capitalist nations. In doing so, we have examined how the revolutionary theories of Marx, Lenin, Stalin, and Mao can be applied to these specific contexts, adapting their lessons to address unique challenges while maintaining a common revolutionary aim: the defeat of imperialism and all reaction. Together, we have reaffirmed the continuing relevance of the national question, not just in the global South but even in the heartlands of advanced capitalist states, where the proletariat must grapple with new challenges in its historic role as the leading force of revolution. Through this lens, we have reaffirmed that while the conditions of each struggle may vary, the principles of proletarian leadership, the two-stage revolution, and international solidarity are critical in achieving genuine liberation from imperialism, and towards socialism.
These discussions have underscored a critical truth: that the fight for national liberation is not merely a fight for sovereignty but a step in the larger struggle for socialism and the complete emancipation of humanity. As we have seen from the writings of Marx, Lenin, Stalin, and Mao, the path forward is one of unity, discipline, and revolutionary leadership, rooted in the principles of proletarian internationalism. Their teachings and lessons from their revolutionary practice offer us a framework for overcoming imperialism’s economic, political, and military stranglehold, ensuring that national liberation does not end with formal independence but evolves into a transformative movement for socialism.
Our conference has also reminded us of the formidable challenges ahead. Imperialism has proven to be ruthless in its fightback, using sanctions, military interventions, and ideological warfare to crush any movement that dares to assert sovereignty. Yet, we have also discussed revolutionary pathways to resist these threats and break free from imperialist chains: we must build solidarity, foster self-reliance, advance our revolutionary consciousness, and deepen the unity of the working class and other oppressed classes in our respective countries and territories.
As we bring this conference to a close, I would like to warmly invite all of you to participate in the next theoretical conference on Comprador and Bureaucrat Capitalism in the Neocolonies, where we will continue to build on the foundations laid by our past discussions, including the invaluable lessons from this gathering. Your enthusiasm, commitment, and critical engagement have been vital to the richness of our deliberations, and we hope to see the same spirit carried forward. Let us ensure that the insights we have gained here, along with those from previous conferences, are not confined to theoretical spaces but actively permeate our revolutionary practice. After this conference let us go back to our organizations, let us transform these lessons into strategies that guide our movements, strengthen our resolve, and bring us closer to the ultimate goal of a world free from exploitation and oppression. Your contributions are the lifeblood of this collective journey, and we look forward to your continued participation as we advance this revolutionary struggle.
As we part ways, let these discussions inspire action—action that strengthens the resistance to imperialism, empowers national liberation struggles, and builds the revolutionary momentum needed to defeat capitalism.
Comrades, our struggles may span different continents, but our vision is shared: a world free of exploitation, oppression, and imperialist domination. As the conference ends, the work begins anew. Let us carry forward the spirit of this gathering into every battle, every campaign, and every act of solidarity.
Together, we are not just imagining a better world; we are building it.
Thank you, and onward to victory!