OPINION- The African National Congress Youth League Constitution and the Contradicting Traditions: Is the ANC Youth League in for another demise as a result of ageism?
The idea that African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) leaders over the age of 35 shall lead the organization until the end of their term is a misconception of our constitution.
The ANC Youth League is the political youth organization of the ANC. It is established in the ANC’s constitution as the youth organ of the organization.
A constitution is a body of fundamental principles or established precedents according to which an organization is governed. In the constitution, you can find a set of rules that determine how an organization is run.
However, there are contradicting traditions in the ANCYL. These are transmitted beliefs from generation to generation, wrong historical conventions, or unwritten laws that have been turned into long-standing practices by those entrusted with the responsibility to lead this organization.
In the 1940s, those who argued for the formation of the ANC Youth League believed that it was the only way to ensure the ANC’s everlasting existence. Therefore, the continued existence of the ANC depends heavily on the ANCYL and its ability to produce capable cadres who are competent enough to lead the revolution and revitalize the ANC.
To support my argument, Article G of the ANCYL Constitution explicitly states that membership of the ANC Youth League is open to all South African youth between the ages of 14 and 35 who accept its policy guidelines, aims, and objectives. In simpler terms, we have a full 21 years to actively participate in the life of the League, and once we turn 18 years old, we can begin to exercise our right to participate in the politics of the ANC as active members with full responsibilities and rights.
Sub-section 4 under Article G further states that membership shall cease when a person turns 35 years old.
The basis of my argument is clear; we need to consider the idea of ageism and its roots:
1. How do we interpret membership in terms of age limitations? These are the rules or recommendations that specify the age at which a person can join or is no longer eligible to be a member.
2. The age of a person at the time of a congress is also a matter of organizational discipline. It is inappropriate to contest for leadership responsibilities of such a youthful organization if you will no longer fit into the age category within a few days. This is ill discipline and needs to be addressed. Those with a conscience should abstain and allow the rightful members to lead themselves.
The ANC Youth League is not lacking in leadership. There is no need for older individuals to unconstitutionally hold onto positions under the false belief that they are still young.
Only the National Congress has the authority to amend the constitution. Anything that goes against the constitutional rules and directives is a cognitive failure. It would be careless for us to accept that wrong traditions take precedence over constitutional rules.
Upon taking an oath, each member declares that they will abide by the aims and objectives of the ANC Youth League as set out in the constitution, the Freedom Charter, and all other policies adopted from time to time. They join the organization voluntarily, without expecting material gain, and promise to participate in the life of the organization as loyal, active, and disciplined members.
I believe that it is important to provoke thoughts and engage in constructive criticism for personal development. I may not have the best memory or superior logic, but to some extent, I believe I am on to something. Where I may be wrong, I am open to constructive criticism and personal growth.
A fellow member of the ANC Youth League,
Long live the ANC Youth League.
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