Several prominent South African foundations, including the Steve Biko, Thabo Mbeki, Chief Albert Luthuli, Desmond and Leah Tutu, Oliver and Adelaide, and FW de Klerk Foundations, have announced their withdrawal from the organising team for the President’s upcoming National Dialogue, which incorporates the National Convention. The announcement was made in a statement released on Friday.
The foundations expressed their deep concern that the essential principles underpinning the National Dialogue have been compromised, with critical decisions seemingly rushed in anticipation of the gathering set for 15 August. This development has raised alarms about the integrity and inclusivity of what is purported to be a unifying forum for South Africans.
According to the foundations, the integrity of the National Dialogue is paramount. They articulated a vision for the discussions to be credible, principled, and anchored in public trust. In their withdrawal, they ensured it was clear that while they are stepping away from the organisational front, they remain eager to participate in the dialogue itself, highlighting their commitment to the nation’s restorative efforts.
The announcement comes on the back of comments made by ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa earlier this week. In his address, Ramaphosa articulated the overarching goals of the National Dialogue, emphasising its role in promoting a shared vision for South Africa and heralding it as a crucial step toward the country’s progress. He lauded the contributions of the Eminent Persons Group, suggesting that their involvement had been instrumental in shaping the process thus far.