‘Liberation Betrayed’: Malatji demands economic justice for South Africa’s youth

ANC Youth League President Collen Malatji has delivered a strong message to the ANC leadership, urging them to take urgent action to tackle unemployment, poverty, and corruption that continue to harm South Africa’s youth. Speaking at the Oliver Tambo Memorial Lecture in Port Shepstone, Malatji said the ANC is losing the trust of young people because it has failed to deliver on the promises of the liberation struggle.

“Our struggle heroes did not fight for officials to misuse power or for corruption to grow in our communities,” Malatji said. “They fought for the complete freedom of all South Africans. The situation we see now is not what they dreamed of.”

“Many young people spend their days looking for jobs that are not there. In many areas, every day feels like a holiday, not because there is joy but because there are no opportunities,” he said.

Malatji warned that poverty and hunger make it difficult for young people to participate fully in democracy. “People cannot be expected to vote when they are hungry. When your stomach is empty, you cannot focus on politics. This is why many are losing faith in the ANC. They feel the party no longer believes in them.”

The Youth League president also spoke out strongly against corruption inside the ANC. Referring to recent investigations, he said the actions of some leaders who abuse their positions have damaged the party’s reputation.

“Those who steal from poor communities are not our comrades. Corruption has broken the trust between the ANC and the people,” Malatji stated. “We can no longer wait for others to act. The Youth League will take responsibility to restore integrity.”

He called for a renewed focus on economic reform that benefits all South Africans. Malatji emphasized the need to revive local industries and keep more of the country’s natural resources for domestic use.

“We have the minerals and raw materials, but too much is being sent out of the country without being processed here. This does not create jobs or build wealth for our people. We must change this to provide more opportunities,” he said.

Malatji’s speech reminded listeners that the struggle for freedom includes economic justice. “Freedom is not just about political rights. It means having access to land, jobs, and a better life for all,” he said.

He ended with a call to action for the Youth League and the ANC. “The fight continues. Until our people are free in every sense, our mission is not complete. If the Youth League does not lead, then who will?”

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