The Presidency has restructured and strengthened the organising team for the National Convention by including various social partners and civil society groups.
This move aims to guarantee the convention takes place on Friday, 15 August, allowing the National Dialogue process to begin.
President Cyril Ramaphosa met with the Preparatory Task Team (PTT) representatives this week. Addressing worries over internal divisions and the team’s readiness to deliver the event.
Despite calls from some stakeholders to postpone, the President confirmed the convention will proceed.
Calling it a “call to action” for South Africans to take ownership of the country’s future.
Legacy Foundations Withdraw, But Dialogue Continues
Several legacy foundations, including the Steve Biko, Thabo Mbeki, Chief Albert Luthuli, Oliver & Adelaide Tambo, Desmond & Leah Tutu, and FW de Klerk Foundations, withdrew from the dialogue last week.
They cited concerns such as erosion of citizen leadership, lack of finances, inadequate platforms for dialogue, internal misalignment, and rushed timelines.
President Ramaphosa acknowledged their withdrawal with regret but welcomed their intention to continue playing a meaningful role in the National Dialogue as it unfolds.
Presidency Stresses Importance of Convention
Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya emphasised that the National Convention must go ahead so South Africans can take control of the National Dialogue.
“Invitations have gone out to organisations across the country, and delegates are preparing to attend,” he said.
The convention will mark the point where South Africans “take over and run with the National Dialogue process.”
Organising Team Reorganised Amid Challenges
To address difficulties within the Preparatory Task Team, the organising team has been reorganised and reinforced with social partners and civil society formations.
This will ensure the convention’s success and allow the National Dialogue process to start as planned.
Do you believe the National Convention can succeed despite the withdrawal of key legacy foundations?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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