‘Nothing to celebrate on youth day’: DUP

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As the country commemorated youth day this past weekend, the Democratic Union Party (DUP) is adamant that there is nothing to celebrate.

Forty-eight years ago the youth of South Africa faced the brutal apartheid system head-on protesting against the introduction of the oppressors language as a medium of instruction.

The day commemorates the Soweto Uprising of 1976, a pivotal moment when young South Africans stood up against the oppressive apartheid regime, demanding justice, equality, and the right to quality education.

DUP secretary general Thapelo Makgale says whilst they commemorate the gallant fight and the bravery by the youth of 1976 there is still less to celebrate.

“The youth of today are not provided with ample opportunities in the mainstream economy. The youth unemployment rate is standing at 45.5%.

“The government has not done enough to address issues facing the youth such as education, unemployment, skills transfer and youth empowerment programs.

“Scores of youth have lost confidence in the system and have been engulfed by crime, substance abuse and teenage pregnancy,” he expressed.

Nothing about the youth without the youth

Makgale stated that the DUP has noted with disappointment that whilst 35% of the registered population is the youth, only less than 25% has been elected as parliamentarians in the 2024 general elections.

He added; “The first group to be considered the youth (30-39) is made up of 67 members (16.75%), and the youngest group of Members of Parliament (20-29 years old) has just 12 members (3%).

The swearing in of the 2 youngest members of Parliament in the history of South Africa, Cleo Wilskut and Jasmine Petersen.

We are changing the narrative. #OnsBaizaMie #ABAHAMBE pic.twitter.com/lhcmRTsw9p

— Patriotic Alliance (@OnsBaizaNie) June 14, 2024

“The DUP commends the Patriotic Alliance for deploying a 19-year-old Cleo Wilskut to the National Assembly as a law-maker.

“A DUP government shall put youth interest first. 60% of DUP public representatives will be youth and women, including people with disabilities.”

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The SG highlighted that they will stick to the paradigm “nothing about the youth without the youth”.

“The future is youth. The 1976 youth reminds us of the power and potential of the young people to make a change,” he concluded.