MASERU – Chairperson of Parliaments Social Cluster Committee Mr. Mokhothu Makhalanyane has called for the proposed Youth Bill to be framed as a Youth Bill, rather than a Youth Development Bill, saying development should remain a key component of legislation aimed at addressing the aspirations of young people.
Mr. Makhalanyane said discussions with young people had shown strong support for legislation that would give youth a meaningful role in decision-making and national development.
He said young people had expressed concern about the language used in the proposed legislation, arguing that the bill should broadly address youth issues while allowing regulations and policies on youth development to be expanded as necessary.
Mr Makhalanyane said young people should also be represented in structures where decisions affecting them are made, including boards, councils and committees.
He proposed that Parliament consider measures that would increase youth representation, including the possibility of reserving seats for young people and young people with disabilities.
Mr Makhalanyane said youth participation should not be limited to forums and consultations, but should be institutionalised through legislation and government programmes.
He cited public procurement, public financial management and accountability, public service regulations and the electoral Act as some of the areas
that could be reviewed to strengthen youth participation.
He said the government should also create an enabling environment for young people to participate meaningfully in the economy, particularly through entrepreneurship and agriculture.
According to Mr Makhalanyane, the private sector is facing serious challenges and the government should therefore focus on creating conditions that enable businesses to grow rather than over-regulating them.
He urged young people to remain principled when getting into politics, warning that political pressure could make it difficult for individuals to uphold their values.
Mr Makhalanyane further called for greater investment in education, saying access to education should be treated as a priority without expecting immediate returns.
He said young people should be given opportunities to contribute to national development, adding that their participation should continue beyond youth forums, committees and political cycles.
Lesotho Youth continue to face challenges including unemployment, limited economic opportunities and inadequate participation in decision making processes.
Ends/ MAMAJ
