A major national dialogue has been launched in South Africa to confront some of the country’s toughest challenges, including poverty, inequality, corruption, and an unemployment rate that sits above 30 percent.
The two day convention in Pretoria marks the beginning of what President Cyril Ramaphosa has described as a soul searching process that will bring together civic groups, political parties, and ordinary citizens. It comes in the wake of the ANC’s loss of its parliamentary majority in the 2024 election, which paved the way for a coalition government.
Ramaphosa has emphasized that the discussions are intended to be inclusive and people driven. To begin the process, he has appointed an Eminent Persons Group featuring prominent figures such as rugby captain Siya Kolisi, veteran actor John Kani, and former judge Edwin Cameron.
Still, the initiative has not been without controversy. The Democratic Alliance pulled out after a political clash, labeling the talks a misuse of public funds. Meanwhile, the MK Party has also opted to boycott the process.
