As South Africa commemorates Youth Month and the historic June 16 Soweto Uprising, the ANC Youth League has called for a generational shift in leadership within the ruling party and national politics.

Speaking at a recent youth gathering, ANC Youth League President Collen Malatji declared that President Cyril Ramaphosa should be the last “pensioner” to lead the country, emphasizing the need for younger leadership in the African National Congress.

“The country can no longer be led by pensioners. The last pensioner who has led this country is President Cyril Ramaphosa. After him, there is no pensioner who will be elected to be the president of South Africa,” said Malatji (Source: SABC News).

He further urged veteran leaders like Gwede Mantashe and Paul Mashatile to step aside after their current terms, reinforcing the youth league’s push for generational change.

Despite South Africa’s notable inclusion of young people in Parliament, its main political parties—ANC, DA, and MK Party—are still led by individuals over 50, including 82-year-old Jacob Zuma of the MK Party.

Malatji’s call comes amid a growing sentiment among South African youth for fresh leadership that reflects their aspirations and future-focused priorities.