Johannesburg – The African National Congress (ANC) Youth League has declared that it will “take over the national dialogue” and refuse to remain “spectators,” insisting the conversation must not be dominated by people “over 70.” Addressing journalists in Johannesburg, league leaders cautioned that without their participation the Freedom Charter could be captured by “right wingers and liberals,” adding that the forum should belong to “right-wing elements” only if they are progressive.

The statement marks a sharp shift from last week, when the league dismissed the dialogue as a waste of time and money. The event is championed by President Cyril Ramaphosa as a showcase of the governing party’s achievements and an effort to rebuild confidence in South Africa’s struggling economy.

The ANC lost its national majority in the 2024 election after years of corruption scandals and leftist-wing policy experiments that eroded investor trust, dragged down fixed investment, and stifled job creation. Surveys by the Social Research Foundation indicate that many ANC supporters now doubt the motives of party leaders and favour pragmatic, centrist reforms to boost growth and employment.

Viewed through the political lens, the Youth League’s bid to “seize the dialogue” highlights generational divides and the pressure for renewal in South African politics. Its call for greater youth involvement underscores the search for solutions beyond the established leadership.