SEBOKENG.- The Democratic Alliance (DA) Emfuleni Central Constituency honoured the bravery, sacrifice, and determination of the young people of 16 June 1976, who stood against injustice and fought for freedom, dignity, and equal opportunities for all South Africans on Tuesday.

DA’s Dady Mollo said that the youth of 1976’s courage helped shape the democratic South Africa we live in today.

“As we remember their sacrifice, we must also confront the reality facing many young people in Emfuleni and across South Africa. Fifty years after the Soweto Uprising, too many young South Africans remain trapped in unemployment, poverty, crime, substance abuse, and failing public services. In Emfuleni, many young people face daily challenges caused by deteriorating infrastructure, unreliable service delivery, limited economic opportunities, and a municipality that has been weakened by years of corruption and mismanagement.”

Young people deserve more than promises.

Mollo said that the DA believes that the youth deserve more than promises.

“They deserve a government that creates opportunities through economic growth, delivers quality education, maintains safe communities, and provides reliable basic services that enable businesses to invest and create jobs.”

Young people are drivers for change.

He further said that young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow; they are the drivers of change today.

“Their energy, innovation, and determination are essential to rebuilding our communities and restoring hope to our municipality. As we commemorate Youth Day, we encourage every eligible young person to register to vote and participate actively in shaping the future of their community. Democracy is strongest when citizens use their voices and exercise their right to vote. For the youth of Emfuleni, the struggle of 1976 secured political freedom. The challenge before us now is to secure economic freedom, opportunity, and a future where every young person has the chance to realise their full potential.”