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Statement by National Youth Development Trust on World Youth Day for Democracy
National Youth Development Trust
October 19, 2011

National Youth Development Trust joins the world in commemorating World Youth Day for Democracy. Of striking importance this year has been the pro-activeness of youths in democratic transformation of their society's world over. Over 4,000 Egyptian youth protested brutal violence by their government, police, and security officials. Such a protest contributed to the ultimate ousting of former president Hosni Mubarak.

Similarly in southern Africa youths played a critical role in the recently held presidential elections in Zambia. The positive participation of youths in these elections became a determining factor in the democratic transition of the country. Such benchmarks deserve recognition on this particular day.

It cannot be doubted that youths are the potential change makers in all efforts to achieve democratic transition in Zimbabwe, just like they have been on the forefront of all revolutions and democratic transitions that have taken place globally this year. However, there is still a lot to be done in Zimbabwe to create an environment that will allow for democratic processes. A lot remains unaddressed in terms of electoral universal suffrage of youths in Zimbabwe. Nearly 72 % of the youths in Zimbabwe are not registered voters owing to the unfavorable political environment, skewed nature of the country's politics and the violence that has characterized elections in Zimbabwe since 1980. Selective application of the law, lack of rule of law and draconian pieces of legislature are all contributing to the suppression of youth participation in critical processes in Zimbabwe.

On this day, the National Youth development trust reaffirms its commitment in ensuring greater youth participation in all democratic processes. We also challenge the leaders of Zimbabwe to create an environment conducive enough for young people to play their part in the struggle for democratic transition. We also encourage them to channel the potential and energy of young people to positive use.

Visit the National Youth Development Trust fact sheet

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