The Pan Africanist Congress of Azania (PAC) on Friday said it had noted the appointment of 70-year-old Job Mokgoro as the North West Premier, saying the country cannot be led by "semi-ancestors" while it had a nation of youth who were prepared to lead.

Mokgoro was sworn in as a member of the provincial legislature and elected as Premier of the province on Friday.

Mokgoro replaces 50-year-old Supra Mahumapelo, who was forced to step down last month.

The party said that it was greatly disappointed in government for imposing "semi-ancestors" on the people of North West and South Africa.

PAC spokesperson Kenneth Mokgatlhe said the party was not undermining Mokgoro but young people were not been taken seriously because they were expected to be 50 years or older to be considered for crucial leadership positions.

“The growing trend/tradition of ageism is a serious problem for political parties, trade unions and government agencies – young people are not exposed to positions of leadership simply because they are young,” he added.

Mokgatlhe said there were many young qualified people in the country who could have filled the position, and added that the country must begin to entrust the youth with mammoth leadership responsibility.

“Young people can use their elders of 70 years (pensioners) as advisers. . . and can draw guidance and wisdom from their elders; thus, Mokgoro must be at home and we will go to him to consult whenever we need any counsel in running the affairs of this country,” stated the PAC.