The statement, which was intended for a media briefing that was ultimately cancelled, sparked internal outrage after it began circulating publicly on Thursday (2/10). In response, the youth league moved swiftly to distance itself from the leaked communication.

“We have noted with disappointment the circulation of an unofficial, and unauthorised, statement issued by individuals seeking to speak on behalf of the organisation. 

“We wish to place it on record that the Ancyl Free State has not released any official communication regarding the outcomes of the PEC meeting this past weekend,” said Ancyl provincial spokesperson Sinazo Hafula.

The organisation has vowed to investigate the source of the leak, adding that internal disciplinary processes have already been initiated.

“A formal statement regarding the outcome of the PEC meeting will be issued in due course,” Hafula said, warning that disciplinary measures will be applied to any member found to have participated in these activities.

The leaked statement, which has stirred political tensions within the ruling party’s provincial structures, expressed deep dissatisfaction with the leadership of Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae and the functioning of the PEC. It also raised alarms over alleged corruption, failing municipalities, and the growing youth unemployment crisis in the Free State.

Ancyl provincial secretary Jackson Mthembu, who was scheduled to address the cancelled briefing on Thursday, told youth league members in a WhatsApp message that the statement was leaked.

“Comrades, the statement that was supposed to be presented has leaked. It’s understood that the briefing was cancelled after instructions not to proceed with media engagement,” he said.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cvs

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