ANCYL produces misfits as leaders

If we were to go back in history in an attempt to establish any notable contribution by some of the former presidents of the ANC Youth League, we would find nothing.

These leaders made disrespectful statements about their elders when they were young. We seem to accept recklessness as a prerequisite for a political career.

Both Fikile Mbalula and Julius Malema launched their political careers by disrespecting then president Thabo Mbeki in public.

It happened without any public rebuke from senior ANC members. It’s only when Malema turned against Jacob Zuma that the ANC took disciplinary action. Malema infamously said “we are prepared to take up arms and kill for Zuma”.

When Mbalula was deputy minister of police, he made reckless statements about “fire power” and “shoot to kill”.

Many of our problems are rooted in societal imbalances, be it crime, sport or education. Police cannot shoot to kill inequality, drug addiction and the country’s junk status.

While the youth of other races become famous for new inventions, entrepreneurship and contribution to human development, many (not all) black youth are still known for insulting their elders.

Why should the youth be interested in public service to our people if they see that a political connection has more rewards and earns them respect?

Not to mention the fact that one can sing and dance to become president of the country.

Is it any wonder why we continue to produce useless leaders?

KD Moleko, e-mail