South Africa Launches National Dialogue for Change

Johannesburg, Aug 14 (AP) South Africa is embarking on a "national dialogue" starting Friday, aimed at uniting various societal sectors to address the nation's most critical challenges and devise solutions.

The discussions, initiated by President Cyril Ramaphosa following appeals from civil society, are expected to feature most political parties, civic groups, and the public.

While the estimated cost of USD 40 million has raised concerns, questions also linger about the dialogue's potential to bring meaningful change.

More than 30 years after the end of apartheid, South Africa still grapples with significant issues such as high poverty, inequality, crime, corruption, and an unemployment rate exceeding 30% — among the world's highest.

The country has a history of national conversations, such as the multiparty negotiations that peacefully ended apartheid in the early 1990s.

Purpose of the National Talks Since its first democratic election in 1994, when Nelson Mandela became the first Black president, South Africa has made strides in reducing racial tensions, boosting the economy, and providing access to resources for the impoverished Black majority.

Yet, concerns have grown that the nation has regressed over the past decade. Calls for introspection grew after the ANC lost its majority in the 2024 election, resulting in a coalition government.

Ramaphosa unveiled the dialogue plan in June, stating, "The national dialogue must be a place where everyone has a voice. The dialogue will be a people-led, society-wide process to reflect on the state of our country in order for us to reimagine our future."

Participants Citizens from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to participate, with talks held both in person and virtually.

Ramaphosa has appointed an Eminent Persons Group, consisting of religious, sports, labor, and civic figures representing South Africa's diversity. Among them are rugby captain Siya Kolisi, "Black Panther" actor John Kani, and former Constitutional Court Judge Edwin Cameron.

However, skepticism remains about the talks' impact. The Democratic Alliance (DA) withdrew due to a dispute over the dismissal of its deputy minister by Ramaphosa, criticizing the dialogue as a public money waste.

The MK Party, the leading opposition, also opted out.

The dialogue will progress in phases, including public discussions across South Africa's nine provinces. Although the duration is unclear, a follow-up convention may occur early next year.

Criticism of the National Dialogue Some prominent foundations have withdrawn from this week's opening event, citing tight timelines and logistical challenges but expressed willingness to participate in the broader program.

Despite criticisms about the dialogue's cost, Ramaphosa's office dismissed exaggerated figures.

"A real nationwide process will inevitably be costly. It's unavoidable," remarked University of Pretoria political analyst Dirk Kotze.

The DA and others have accused the ANC of attempting to control the narrative and using the platform for pre-local election campaigning next year.

"The ANC should step back and not try to control the process," Kotze added. (AP) GSP

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