The post R2K Youth Day Statement: The youth must revolt against the deeply corrupt and uncaring government! appeared first on Right2Know Campaign:
As stated by R2K, 45 years ago, South African youth protested against the Apartheid government’s decision to make Afrikaans the main language in schools. Despite police violence, their courage brought significant changes to South Africa and gained international attention. Today, we honor their bravery and call on the youth of 2021 to stand against the current corrupt and uncaring government led by the African National Congress (ANC).
South Africa is now in the third wave of Covid-19 infections, as announced by the National Institute of Communicable Diseases. However, the vaccine rollout is very slow. Young people must demand faster and fair access to vaccines, just like the youth of 1976 fought for justice.
Corruption is a major problem. The National Health Minister, Dr. Zweli Mkhize, was involved in a scandal and is now on leave. This corruption misuses resources meant for the public. The Right2Know Campaign warns that corruption harms the nation, and young people must unite to fight it.
Youth unemployment is at a record high of 33.4%. On Youth Day, the Right2Know Campaign urges the government and private sector to create jobs. Many young people cannot access job opportunities or online courses due to high internet costs. We campaign for affordable and secure internet access.
Illegal surveillance is another concern. On June 17, we will co-host a press conference about the State Security Agency spying on civil society groups, unions, and journalists. We demand accountability for these actions.
The right to protest is crucial for democracy but is under threat. The government is criminalizing protests, and police brutality is increasing. Young people must defend the right to protest and push for less militarized policing.
We also condemn xenophobia. A xenophobic march is planned for Youth Day in Gauteng. We urge leaders to stop blaming foreign nationals for the country’s problems.
To celebrate Youth Day, R2K in Western Cape will host a Youth Dialogue at Salt River Community House in Cape Town and an Instagram Live Conversation about the 1976 uprising at 3 PM.
EVENT DETAILS:
Youth Dialogue
Venue: Salt River Community House,
41 Salt River Road, Salt River
Date: Wednesday, 16 June 2021
Time: 09 AM
R2K Youth Month Instagram Live Conversations
Topic: Defending the right to protest: Lessons from the 1976 uprising!
Host: Moeketsi Monaheng, R2K
Guest: Busi Zasekhaya, Right2Protest
Date: Wednesday, June 16
Time: 03 PM
Join us LIVE on Instagram
For further comment contact:
Thami Nkosi, R2K Interim Programme Coordinator: 062 624 5992
Nomacebo Mbayo, R2K Western Cape Organiser: 078 762 6013
Moeketsi Monaheng, R2K Gauteng Organiser: 078 041 7402
