By Lesedi Sibiya-Diplomatic Insider
With the National Dialogue on the horizon, very prominent foundations have been left out of the conversation, The Nelson Mandela, Thabo Mbeki and Ahmed Kathrada foundations have all been left out of the National Dialogue which will take place on the 15th of August.
The National Dialogue is a government led event aimed at hosting a conversation about critical national issues. Former President Thabo Mbeki has cited the reasons for his foundation withdrawing from the dialogue and has cited his concerns over the uncertainty of the R700 million allocated for the event.
Other notable foundations that have withdrawn are the Steve Biko Foundation, the Desmond and Leah Tutu Foundation, and the FW De Klerk Foundation due to the nature of how the event has prepared as well having exclusionary undertones.
“We feel the organisation of the matter was not entirely honest as to where the funds will be directed,” said Thabo Mbeki.
“This is due to our belief that core principles meant to underpin the whole national dialogue have been violated in the rush to host a gathering on August 15,” added Mbeki.
The foundations collectively put out a statement addressing their concerns over the National Dialogue, expressing that the rushed planning of the event has given it performative undertones.
“They expressed deep concern over the lack of a confirmed, approved budget allocation, which has hindered any sound preparation. Significant disagreements within the Preparatory Task Team further complicated the situation, particularly regarding governance and the overall direction of the dialogue.” as per the joint statement.
The foundations have mentioned that they proposed a date for 15 October, 2025 in order to retain stability and allow for more preparation to be given for this event.
Another concern raised was the inclusion of the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Vice Chancellor and Dean Prof. Tiniyiko Maluleke, due to his controversy behind promising the Sekhukhune Youth a campus at the university and his failure to deliver on this promise have left many of these children without Higher Education opportunities.
Despite the controversy and the withdrawal of these foundations, President Cyril Ramaphosa maintains that the event will proceed as scheduled this Friday. President Ramaphosa has expressed that the budget allocation aligns with the Public Finance Management Act.
UNISA has offered to facilitate the space for the event; “UNISA has offered to host the first National Convention and provide associated goods and services free of charge.” according to the Presidency. “Venues and logistical support are being secured without the R700 Million budget.”