The narrative of political change in South Africa has evolved since the dawn of democracy in 1994. However, as the 2024 elections have demonstrated, young South Africans are increasingly disillusioned with a government prioritising political infighting and party agendas over the fundamental issues that matter most to them.

Young people, particularly those born after the end of apartheid, have never known a time before freedom. Their hopes and dreams have always been tied to a stable and prosperous future in which the government serves their best interests. Yet, after casting their votes, they got a political mess marked by constant bickering and a lack of progress—a far cry from the vision they voted for. The concept of a Government of National Unity (GNU) may have been a necessary arrangement. Still, it was never the political order that young South Africans sought when they voted in 2024.

The GNU, designed to promote stability through cooperation among different political parties, has outlived its usefulness and symbolised political stagnation. Rather than a government focused on building the future, it has become a vehicle for preserving power at the expense of the people. South Africans voted for something much different—an effective government that could tackle their biggest concerns: job creation, access to quality education, and the economic opportunities necessary to build a better life.

Their votes were cast with the hope that the promises of a brighter future would be fulfilled. However, they have witnessed a political environment characterized by gridlock, indecision, and internal squabbles that prevent real solutions from being enacted. One of the key reasons for the growing dissatisfaction is the persistent unemployment crisis. Despite the country’s vast resources and potential, unemployment rates remain alarmingly high, particularly among young people. Political infighting has drowned out the promises of a government that would focus on creating opportunities.

Young South Africans find themselves locked out of a job market that is already highly competitive and underdeveloped, and the government's inability to create conditions conducive to employment only worsens the situation. In addition to this, the promise of accessible, high-quality education remains unfulfilled. Although free education was a cornerstone of post-apartheid ideals, many young South Africans still struggle to afford tuition fees, deal with substandard infrastructure, and face an education system that remains overburdened and underfunded. These systemic flaws leave young people unable to realize their potential fully.

Instead of addressing these issues, political parties focus more on fighting for political dominance than delivering on the critical promises made to the youth. The political paralysis from the Government of National Unity has left many wondering whether any meaningful progress can be made. Instead of focusing on tangible solutions, political parties, including the African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance (DA), seem more concerned with protecting their power than serving the needs of the people. For the youth of South Africa, this ongoing power struggle offers little hope for the future.

The country’s leadership is so focused on internal squabbles that the issues impacting young people—such as the economy, education, and employment—are continuously neglected. Moreover, the rise of opposition parties, including the DA, has further complicated the situation. While opposition parties may offer an alternative vision, their political agendas often clash with those of the ruling party, further deepening the divide and making it even harder to implement the changes young people desperately need. Instead of the government working together to address the needs of the people, the political landscape has become a battleground where short-term political victories are prioritized over long-term national solutions. The bottom line is simple: young South Africans did not vote for a government that would become bogged down by political infighting. They did not vote for a GNU that would serve as a tool for the political elite to maintain power. They voted for a government that would deliver real, meaningful change—prioritising jobs, quality education, and a stable economy. Instead, they have been met with a political system that is more concerned with the survival of parties than the survival of the country’s youth.

In the aftermath of the 2024 elections, it is clear that South Africa’s political system must undergo serious reform. The Government of National Unity, which once served as a necessary bridge, has now hindered progress. Young South Africans deserve a government that is responsive, accountable, and focused on their needs. Political infighting must end, and party interests must take a back seat to the people’s needs. If South Africa is to build a better future for its youth, it must start by building a political system that serves their aspirations, not their frustration. It’s time for South Africa to move beyond the legacy of the past and build a future where young people can thrive—a future where their dreams are no longer stifled by political paralysis.

*Mayalo is an independent writer, analyst, and commentator

** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL or Independent Media.