Chibber’s call for a “cadre party” rooted in the working class is most welcome. If we are to transform society in a radical, anticapitalist manner we need an organization of organizers and activists that democratically decides and collectively carries out political activity. Such an organization must be rooted in an increasingly diverse working class. It is only this class that has the power to disrupt the production of goods and services and carry out a break with capitalism.

It must also be democratic, an organization where, as Chibber states, “criticizing the leadership is taken a right, basic part of what it means to be a member,” and where “the leadership are committed to these values.” Only a democratic cadre party rooted among working people can effectively provide direction to the episodic upsurges of struggles from below that challenge capital.