In a significant development, several of South Africa’s most respected Legacy Foundations – including those bearing the names of Steve Biko, Thabo Mbeki, FW de Klerk, Desmond Tutu, Oliver Tambo, and Chief Albert Luthuli – have formally withdrawn from the upcoming National Dialogue Convention, scheduled for 15 August 2025.
The Strategic Dialogue Group has also joined the withdrawal.
In a joint statement released on Friday, the group cited serious concerns over breaches of key principles governing the National Dialogue process.
These include government overreach, a rushed timeline, lack of transparency, and financial instability – factors they say undermine the credibility and original citizen-driven spirit of the event.
“We deeply regret this decision,” the statement read, “but we remain steadfast in our commitment to a National Dialogue that is citizen-led, credible, transparent, and inclusive.”
Concerns Over Government Control and Poor Planning
Initially envisioned as a nationwide, citizen-led conversation to address South Africa’s most pressing challenges, the Dialogue has, according to the Foundations, veered off course.
They allege that state interference has compromised the process, with authorities pushing ahead despite logistical shortcomings and inadequate funding.
The group expressed alarm at:
- The rushed timeline to hold the convention
- A lack of grassroots community engagement
- Absence of a confirmed budget
- Emergency procurement practices, raising red flags around accountability
They further noted that tensions within the Preparatory Task Team (PTT) – specifically around governance, readiness, and the Dialogue’s core purpose – have created strategic misalignment.
Call for Postponement, Not Abandonment
Despite withdrawing from the 15 August event, the Foundations emphasised that they are not abandoning the broader National Dialogue project.
Instead, they are calling for a postponement until at least 15 October 2025, allowing time to rebuild public trust, secure proper funding, and ensure the process is truly representative and participatory.
“This Dialogue represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to strengthen our democracy,” the statement concluded.
“But it cannot succeed if it is rushed, centralised, or reduced to a symbolic event.”
The group has announced plans to hold a press conference in the coming days to elaborate on their concerns and present a way forward for a more authentic and effective National Dialogue.
Foundations That Have Withdrawn:
- Steve Biko Foundation
- Thabo Mbeki Foundation
- Chief Albert Luthuli Foundation
- Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation
- FW de Klerk Foundation
- Oliver and Adelaide Tambo Foundation
- Strategic Dialogue Group
Their united stance signals deep discontent with how the National Dialogue has been handled and raises urgent questions about the event’s legitimacy, readiness, and potential impact.
Was this National Dialogue always doomed to fail?
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