Democracy activist Namatai Kwekweza delivered insights on democracy at the FVZS Honorary Lecture after suffering detention. She highlighted the role of youth in realizing the constitutional promise and the importance of engaging with constitutional values to instigate change. Kwekweza reinforces the need for active participation without seeking permission. Dr. Heidi October reflected on the cost of democratic struggles in her conclusion.
Namatai Kwekweza, a democracy activist detained last year, was able to present her insights on the 30 years of democracy at the 12th annual Frederik Van Zyl-Slabbert (FVZS) Honorary Lecture. As the inaugural speaker in the FVZS’s lunch-hour conversation series, she emphasized the importance of citizen leadership amongst African youth through constitutionalism.
Drawing upon her recent 35-day imprisonment for alleged disorderly conduct during a protest, Kwekweza urged for more dialogue regarding the “constitutional promise.” She asserted that true efforts towards democracy extend beyond mere constitutional frameworks, stating, “The reality is that the past is done… As young South Africans, what are we doing to add to the realization of the constitutional promise?”
Kwekweza cautioned that those in positions of power might manipulate the constitution for their own interests rather than fostering accountability. She encouraged the youth to rise against such tendencies, highlighting, “We have our bodies, we have our minds, we have our voices, and we have the spirit of our struggle.”
She articulated the necessity of understanding constitutions, asserting that their efficacy is contingent upon collective belief and action. Kwekweza advocated for youth engagement in shaping a positive constitutional future, insisting, “We don’t need permission to organize, and we don’t need permission to act.”
In her closing remarks, Dr. Heidi October, head of the Frederik van Zyl Slabbert Institute for Student Leadership Development, echoed Kwekweza’s sentiment about the sacrifices involved in the pursuit of democracy, remarking, “We must always be cognizant of the cost of the struggle of democracy, and… the cost might actually be higher.”
In summary, Namatai Kwekweza’s reflections underscore the vital role of African youth in promoting constitutional democracy. Her experiences serve as a reminder of the struggles faced and the need for active engagement to fulfill the constitutional promise. Kwekweza’s message encourages youth empowerment and action, emphasizing the importance of understanding and believing in constitutions for effective change.
Original Source: www.sun.ac.za
