19 June 2024

On this historic day, the 19th of June 2024, we, the Young Communist League of South Africa (YCLSA), extends heartfelt congratulations to the re-elected President of the Republic of South Africa, Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa for being duly inaugurated. This moment signifies not only a continuation of democratic governance but also a testament to the resilience and unity of our people.

We commend the ANC for its courageous decision to create a platform for engagements among political parties to ultimately form a government. This reflects a genuine commitment to inclusiv- ity, partnership, nation building and social cohesion. This strategic move embodies the spirit of the theme for this inauguration, “30 years of Democracy; Partnership and Growth,” and under scores the imperative of collective effort in building a brighter future. The willingness to embrace diverse voices within the governance framework is a step towards ensuring that our democracy remains vibrant and responsive to the needs of all South Africans.

The YCLSA acknowledges and deeply appreciates the peaceful transition from one administration to the next. This seamless transition stands as a testimony of our democratic maturity and stability of the Republic of South Africa and her people. It is a profound reminder of the principle of people’s power and the enduring strength of our democratic institutions. Such orderly transitions are crucial for the consolidation of democracy and the continuous pursuit of social justice.

As we observe the formation of the 7th Democratic Government, we implore the new administra- tion to remain steadfast in its commitment to the youth, the disadvantaged, and the working class. The aspirations and struggles of these groups must be at the forefront of your governance agenda. The youth, who are the present and the future of this country, require substantial investment in education, skills development, and employment opportunities. The plight of the disadvantaged and working class, who have borne the brunt of economic hardships, must be alleviated through targeted policies and interventions geared at ushering in industrialization aimed to eradicate pov- erty, reduce inequality, and create employment.

As the YCLSA we make it clear in no uncertain terms that; in the midst of creating a platform for our class adversaries in Government, we issue a very direct admonition to all partners in the GNU that as they now enter government without a popular mandate, they must in no way even attempt to undermine or subtract from the democratic gains including the social security net that the gov- ernment has rolled out over the last 30 years. These measures have been pivotal in mitigating historical imbalances and the devastating impacts of racial segregation and land dispossession. The social security programs represent a lifeline for millions of South Africans, and any regression in these areas would be an affront to the sacrifices made by our forebears in the struggle for libera- tion. We demand a fortified commitment to sustaining and expanding these programs to ensure that no South African is left behind including Job seekers through Basic Income Grant.

As the YCLSA, we pledge our unequivocal support to the efforts of the 7th Democratic Administration with a view that it will address the plight of among others the dejected, desperate, and destitute youth in the country. As a disciplined and class-conscious youth wing of the vanguard Party (SACP), we stand ready to mount a relentless struggle to continue contributing to the realization of our shared goals in improving the trajectory of our nation and ultimately the lives of our people. However, our acceptance for the prevailing material conditions is not without scrutiny. We will hold this administration to an even higher standard of accountability, particularly concerning the interests of the working-class youth. We will vigilantly monitor and advocate for policies that advance the cause for socialism.

Therefore, now more than ever, we are called upon to intensify our efforts in Mobilizing, organizing, and agitating the youth for Socialism. As Karl Marx once stated, “The emancipation of the working class must be the act of the working class itself.” The proletariat of South Africa must rise to the occasion, armed with the knowledge that our liberation is intertwined with the struggle for international solidarity against imperialism the highest stage of capitalism. Let us honor the legacy of our fallen heroes by continuing their fight for a socialist future and multipolarity in the entire globe!

Forward to Socialism!
Forward to the ultimate triumph of the working class!

Forward to Socialism!
Forward to the ultimate triumph of the working class!

Issued on behalf of the YCLSA 6th National Committee

Mzwandile Thakhudi

6th YCLSA National Secretary

For enquiries and Interviews:

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