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| President Cyril Ramaphosa: image source news 24 |
President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a compelling address to the ANC Youth League, emphasizing the pivotal role the league plays in the renewal and rebuilding of the African National Congress (ANC) and addressing the pressing issue of youth unemployment. In a stirring speech, the President called for a dynamic and systematic approach to confront the challenges facing the country's young population.
Commending the recently concluded ANC Youth League Congress, which saw the election of a new leadership, President Ramaphosa reiterated the significance of successful league conferences in establishing effective structures. The ANC now entrusts the newly elected leadership with the crucial task of spearheading the much-needed renewal and rebuilding process.
President Ramaphosa reminded the audience of the historical context that birthed the Youth League in 1944—a response to mass unemployment, poverty, and a perceived disconnect between leaders and the concerns of ordinary citizens. Drawing inspiration from their predecessors, the President urged the newly elected leadership to adopt a proactive and determined approach in addressing the nation's challenges.
Central to their mission is the critical issue of youth unemployment. President Ramaphosa stressed the importance of the ANCYL leading campaigns to educate and encourage young people to register to vote. Additionally, he highlighted the imperative of revitalizing structures, initiating membership drives, and providing comprehensive political education to attract and engage young individuals effectively.
Acknowledging the negative tendencies that have infiltrated ANC structures over time, including factionalism, gatekeeping, and financial improprieties, the President called for the ANCYL to address these issues in a principled and organized manner, free from biases or fear. Furthermore, he emphasized the ANC's commitment to fostering a more inclusive and progressive youth activism, urging the ANCYL to actively participate in the Progressive Youth Alliance (PYA) and engage with international progressive youth fora.
There are a number of key tasks ahead of you:
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) July 2, 2023
1. Rebuild and renew the ANC Youth League as the preferred leader of young people in South Africa
2. Mobilise young people for economic freedom and social change.
3. Mobilise young people for a decisive victory for the ANC in…
Concluding his address, President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed unwavering confidence in the ANCYL's ability to contribute to the overall renewal and rebuilding of the ANC. He underscored the ANC's dedication to supporting the ANCYL's endeavors and providing guidance as they embark on their transformative journey.
With a unified and vibrant Youth League, President Ramaphosa believes that the ANC can bridge the social divide between its leadership and the membership, effectively address youth unemployment, and shape a more prosperous future for South Africa. The newly elected ANCYL leadership holds the key to driving transformative change, mobilizing young people, and securing a brighter and more equitable nation.
