Kenyan Gen Z Lauded By Malema As South Africa Told To Emulate
Kenyan youth have sparked a powerful wave of inspiration across Africa, according to South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).
The EFF, founded by former African National Congress Youth League President Julius Malema, has urged Kenyan youth to remain steadfast and resilient until their legitimate demands are fully met.
“The youth of South Africa must not be left behind,” the party said in a statement released on Monday.
According to the EFF, South African Gen-Z must draw strength from the example of their Kenyan counterparts and recognise that they are fighting a battle.
The EFF’s Statement on the Ongoing Youth Protests in Kenya
— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) July 22, 2024
-This dismissive attitude mirrors the arrogance of Ruto, who is rapidly losing his grip on power due to his disregard for the youth. Ramaphosa should take a hard lesson from this and recognise the urgent need to engage… pic.twitter.com/9Q91dVEJAI
“The EFF urges the youth of Kenya to stay strong in their fight for economic justice. Their bravery and determination serve as a beacon of hope and a call to action for all oppressed people,” the party added.
It claimed that instead of addressing the legitimate concerns raised by the youth during debates on his parliamentary address, President Cyril Ramaphosa dismissed the EFF as rude, rowdy, and disrespectful.
“He failed to address any of the crucial issues our young MPs brought to light,” the party said.
The party advised Ramaphosa to learn a hard lesson from this and recognize the critical need to engage with the voices of the younger generation.
EFF said it proudly stands in solidarity with Kenya’s courageous youth who rose up against the Finance Bill, which sought to impose massive tax increases on the people.
“We congratulate the youth for their relentless struggle, which has led to the complete scrapping of the Bill and the dissolution of President William Ruto’s entire Cabinet,” EFF said.
The party condemned the Kenyan police’s use of intelligence agencies to suppress protests, which have now escalated into a call for Ruto’s resignation.
“The brutal killing of young protesters, both with live ammunition and through clandestine operations targeting youth leaders, is an egregious violation of human rights,” the party added.
It stated that the number of people killed since the protests began serves as a stark reminder of the lengths oppressive regimes will go to maintain power.
“The EFF also notes with disdain the offer of a government of national unity with opposition forces as a response to the youth’s demands for Ruto’s resignation and better leadership,” it said.
Kenyan Gen Z Lauded By Malema As South Africa Told To Emulate