PRETORIA, Gauteng – Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema is set to lead the party’s Youth Day commemoration at the Union Buildings, delivering a keynote address that highlights the ongoing youth unemployment crisis and the historical significance of the 1976 Soweto Uprising.
The annual commemoration marks a pivotal moment in South Africa’s history, specifically celebrating the 50th anniversary of the 1976 student uprisings where young people protested against apartheid-era education. While the day honors the sacrifices of the past, it also serves as a critical reflection on the modern challenges facing young South Africans, primarily severe economic inequality and a lack of opportunities.
Ahead of the main event, EFF national spokesperson Thembi Msane outlined the pressing issues affecting the younger generation, particularly against the backdrop of the upcoming local government elections. Highlighting the dire economic climate, Msane noted that youth unemployment in the country has surged to above 60%. Furthermore, the burden of student debt continues to suppress young people, who face immense difficulties securing employment or creating their own businesses after obtaining their diplomas due to a lack of supporting industries.
Addressing the growing disillusionment with formal politics, Msane criticized the current government for lacking solutions to these struggles, arguing that the sacrifices of the 1976 generation would have been in vain without the formation of the EFF. When questioned about the low voter registration rates among young people, Msane expressed frustration with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) for failing to understand the root causes of youth apathy. Consequently, the EFF has taken it upon itself to educate young citizens on the importance of changing their vote to a party that genuinely understands their plight.
To mobilize the younger demographic, the EFF has established a Youth Command elections task force. This structure is heavily involved in voter education and encouraging youth participation at the ballot box. Msane highlighted that the party has intentionally placed young figures in parliamentary, provincial, and branch structures to ensure that the daily struggles of young people are directly raised in the highest legislative forums.
Pushing back against the common criticism that political parties only remember the youth during election cycles, Msane defended the EFF’s year-round commitment. Msane pointed to continuous advocacy efforts that began well before the current election cycle, including prominent campaigns to eradicate student debt and initiatives that took young people to pilot school. Maintaining that fighting for the youth is embedded in the party’s core identity, Msane argued it is unfair to categorize the EFF alongside parties that only recognize community struggles during election seasons.
The day’s commemorative program is scheduled to begin at 10:00 AM, culminating in the highly anticipated keynote address by the party president at noon.
