Last year the South African Communist Party (SACP) resolved to establish a Young Communist League (YCL). Comrade Sibusiso Ngwenya (SACP District Secretary) spoke to Rolly Xipu to find out how far it is.

What is expected of the YCL?

The YCL will be expected to be a proponent and advocate of the SACP’s ideological perspective and theory of practice. It will be encouraged to be a structure of critical study and make desirable intellectual input to enhance the theory of the South African revolution. Its challenge will be to make a significant intervention in popular class struggles. It will draw on the rich traditions and lessons of this country’s revolutionary youth movement.

Who can join?

All persons between 14 and 35 years of age are eligible to join the YCL free of charge at least up to the launching congress scheduled for December 2003. Its membership will come from various sections and strata of society with more bias towards working class youth.

How will the structures be set up?

The SACP Central Committee appointed a National Steering Committee and National Co-ordinator. There are also Prominent Steering Committees that are ensuring that the YCL is established in all provinces. Our district steering committee in Ekurhuleni worked hard to launch the first YCL in South Africa . This historic event took place in Tembisa in June 2003. For more information on YCL, contact your SACP branch secretary and/or district secretary on 072 243 5643.