Message of Support to the Elijah Barayi Memorial Lecture delivered by YCLSA National Treasurer- Cde Mandy Ramakgoakgoa hosted by the NUM Youth Structure, held at the Elijah Barayi college in Midrand , 22 May 2024.
Comrades and friends of the Revolution,
It is with immense pride and solidarity that I stand before you today, representing the Young Communist League of South Africa (YCLSA) at this important Elijah Barayi Memorial Lecture. We are delighted to partake in this memorial lecture, as it is a vital platform for advancing the principles and goals adopted at the 15th Congress of the South African Communist Party (SACP). The Congress committed to the struggle for socialism in South Africa, seeking to build a popular socialist movement of the workers and the poor. Gatherings like this memorial lecture play a crucial role in consolidating the student, worker, and youth alliance, aligning with our dual approach of electioneering and strengthening the youth league of the SACP.
The YCLSA firmly believes that the student-worker alliance is the foundation of a popular socialist movement for the poor and the working class. We support and commend the efforts of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) in remembering the life and contributions of Comrade Elijah Barayi. His legacy offers valuable lessons for the ongoing struggle for workers’ rights and liberation in South Africa.
As the younger generation, we must heed the words of Lenin: “The task of the youth is to learn, learn, learn.” We have much to learn from the sacrifices and dedication of comrades like Elijah Barayi and his generation, whose life’s work advanced the cause of socialism. This is essential for us, as we are a generation committed to youth development and empowerment within a socialist framework. We must share trenches and struggle together in the pursuit of youth empowerment and development.
Over the past 30 years since our democratic breakthrough, South Africa has achieved significant gains, many of which are undermined by employers due to the high levels of unemployment. This situation grants employers the bargaining power to hire a cheap and
exploited workforce. We are acutely aware of the challenges facing young workers today and stand in principled solidarity with them. Issues such as non-compliance by employers with the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, the Employment Equity Act, and the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act are significant concerns. Additionally, the implementation of Section 189 of the Labour Relations Act by employers, which often targets youth through the “last in, first out” principle, further exacerbates their precarious situation. When companies like Sibanye retrench workers, it is predominantly the youth who are affected. This highlights a troubling sentiment among employers who regard the youth as a disposable workforce, exploiting their labor without regard for their rights and future.
As we look towards the upcoming national and provincial elections, it is crucial that we, as young people, support and vote for the African National Congress (ANC). By endorsing the top six priorities of the governing party, we can ensure that the needs of workers are addressed. These priorities include the creation of jobs, the industrialization of the economy, addressing the cost of living crisis in South Africa, investing in people, and fostering a peaceful global environment. We must remember that we are members of the community before we are workers, and our collective vote can drive the change we wish to see.
The YCLSA stands with the NUM Youth Structure in fighting against these injustices. We recognize that our struggle is not just about immediate gains but about building a society where the rights and dignity of all workers are upheld. Let us draw inspiration from Elijah Barayi’s unwavering spirit and commitment. Let us recommit ourselves to the principles of solidarity, equality, and justice.
Together, we can overcome the challenges of today and build a brighter, more equitable future for all South Africans. Forward to a united, empowered, and progressive youth movement! Forward to the legacy of Elijah Barayi!
In solidarity,
Young Communist League of South Africa (YCLSA)
