In an exclusive interview with The African Perspective, Mayibuye Melisizwe Mandela, great-grandson of the late President Nelson Mandela, has confirmed that he has formally submitted a proposal to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Mrs. Angela Thokozile Didiza, requesting a debate on the establishment of a Youth National Assembly in South Africa.
Mandela emphasized the importance of creating a platform for young people to engage in the decision-making process, stating, “We must empower young people and provide them with a voice in shaping the future of our nation.” He highlighted that the proposed Youth National Assembly aims to promote inclusive democracy, ensuring that every citizen has an equal opportunity to participate and contribute to the country’s development.
To achieve this, Mandela proposed a constitutional amendment to Section 42 of the South African Constitution, which would establish a Youth National Assembly. This would involve a rigorous legislative process, requiring approval by two-thirds of the National Assembly and six of the nine provinces in the National Council of Provinces.
The proposal has garnered significant attention from youth organizations and political leaders, with many praising it as a bold initiative to address the challenges facing young people in South Africa. As the great-grandson of Nelson Mandela, Mayibuye Melisizwe Mandela is dedicated to upholding his legacy and promoting the values of democracy, equality, and social justice. His proposal for a Youth National Assembly demonstrates his commitment to empowering young people and creating a brighter future for all South Africans.
He hopes that the proposal will inspire a new generation of young leaders to take action and make their voices heard. Mayibuye Melisizwe Mandela believes that the Youth National Assembly will provide a platform for young people to engage in meaningful dialogue, share their ideas, and contribute to the development of policies that affect their lives.
Photo: Mayibuye Mandela (Facebook)