Lungani Zungu
Growing up in a mudhouse without water and electricity motivated Tshiamo Makunye to get involved in politics.
Makunye, aged 18, is the youngest ward councillor candidate in the country. As the African Transformation Movement (ATM) Ward 5 candidate in Rand West City Local Municipality, he wants to ink his name in the history books by becoming the youngest councillor.
He did however admit that it’s been an uphill battle.
“I have been working very hard since I was endorsed as the ward candidate. It’s been tough, but I will not abandon my journey,” he told Scrolla.Africa in an interview.
His decision to join politics created a tug-of-war between his parents.
His father, Thomas Moroe, supported him, but his mother, Lesego Makunye, wanted none of it.
But not even his mom’s disapproval could derail him.
“I told my mom that I’m not only joining politics for myself but for the thousands of unemployed youth who have decided to do drugs,” he said.
To win his mom over, he excelled in his studies and went on to pass matric with a bachelor – which qualifies him to study at prestigious South African universities.
“My dream is to change South Africa to be a country that is free of corruption and social ills. My mom is now my biggest supporter,” he said.
Makunye’s idol is the late leader of the Black Consciousness Movement, Steve Biko, who died in 1977.
He is currently writing his debut book titled “My Story, Your Inspiration” to be released in January.
Asked why he decided to join the three-year-old ATM, he said he was wowed by the party’s values.
“ATM is different in all respects from other political parties. It is led by people who have high moral values,” he said.
ATM was formed by Vuyo Zungula, a close pal of former president Jacob Zuma three years ago.
“Whether I come out of the elections as a winner or not, the struggle to change people’s lives will continue,” he said.
