South Africa has opened a sweeping national dialogue aimed at tackling the country’s most pressing challenges, from poverty and inequality to corruption and unemployment, which remains above 30 percent.
The two-day convention in Pretoria marks the beginning of what President Cyril Ramaphosa has described as a “soul-searching process” involving civic groups, political parties, and ordinary citizens. The initiative follows the African National Congress (ANC)’s loss of its parliamentary majority in the 2024 election, which resulted in a coalition government.
Ramaphosa emphasized that the process is designed to be inclusive and people-led. To lend credibility, he appointed an Eminent Persons Group that includes rugby captain Siya Kolisi, actor John Kani, and former judge Edwin Cameron.
However, the dialogue has already been clouded by controversy. The Democratic Alliance (DA) withdrew after political disagreements, branding the initiative a waste of public funds. The MK Party has also refused to participate.
Critics have raised concerns about the estimated 40-million-dollar cost, accusing the ANC of leveraging the dialogue to rebuild its image ahead of local elections. Several prominent foundations pulled out of the opening event, citing inadequate planning.
Despite the setbacks, the government insists the dialogue will continue in phases across all nine provinces, with another national convention expected early next year.
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