It is highly irresponsible for President Cyril Ramaphosa to preach militant action to young South Africans, and TLU SA fears the reaction that his comments towards farmers may unleash.
Ramaphosa urged young South Africans to become militant revolutionaries during the closing remarks of the 26th National Conference of the ANC Youth League on 2 July 2023 (*see quotation below).
“This comment is nothing more than an attempt to gain political support ahead of the election,” says Bennie van Zyl, general manager of TLU SA. “We are tired of a certain group in South Africa – which includes our farmer members – being described as the enemy. This, while we work tirelessly day in and day out to put food on the tables of all South Africans. The true enemy is the failing ANC government.”
Therefore, TLU SA has sent a letter to the president emphasising the irresponsibility of his remarks. TLU SA’s Young Farmers Committee has also sent an open letter to the president, reminding him of the difference between a good leader – a statesman – and a politician who will do anything to gain favour and power.
“Despite the ongoing attacks on farmers, we will continue our work and calling,” says Van Zyl. “We will also continue to teach our children to make plans and be innovative instead of resorting to violence.”
*“Without a militant and vibrant and disciplined youth movement that is responsive to the needs of young people, the ANC may eventually lose the ability to grow and to renew itself. So, therefore, I call upon you to return to the militancy of the ANC Youth League of the 1944 era, to go back to the militancy of the ANC Youth League of the ’80s and the ’90s. This is your heritage. That is where you belong, that is where we want to see the ANC Youth League returning to. We don’t want to see an ANC Youth League that is docile, we don’t want to see an ANC Youth League that is asleep during a revolution. You are the revolution.” (YouTube 46:50 tot 48:00)
To support TLU SA in protecting farmers’ interests in the country, please join as a member or supporter at this link: https://www.tlu.co.za/en/join-us/
