Mbeki Declines Invitation to National Dialogue Convention, Says Foundation Will Hold Their Own

Former President Thabo Mbeki

Former President Thabo Mbeki has declined an invitation to attend the National Dialogue Convention scheduled for today, Friday August 15, 2025, at the University of South Africa (UNISA).

This decision comes amid controversy surrounding the convention's organization and legitimacy, with several legacy foundations, including the Thabo Mbeki Foundation, Steve Biko Foundation, Albert Luthuli Foundation, Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation, FW de Klerk Foundation, and Oliver and Adelaide Tambo Foundation, announcing their withdrawal from the event.

The legacy foundations cited several reasons for their decision to withdraw from the convention. According to Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi, chairperson of the Mbeki Foundation, the convention's structure and organization do not align with the principles of inclusivity and citizen-led participation that the National Dialogue is supposed to embody.

The foundations also dispute the legitimacy of the convention, stating that it was not convened by the Preparatory Task Team (PTT), which has been overseeing the National Dialogue process for the past 13 months.

The situation has raised questions about President Cyril Ramaphosa's willingness to listen to advice and address the discrepancies in the process. Despite the withdrawal of several legacy foundations and concerns about the convention's legitimacy, the event is still scheduled to proceed.

Critics argue that Ramaphosa's administration is not adequately addressing the concerns raised by the legacy foundations and other stakeholders, leading to questions about the government's commitment to a truly inclusive and citizen-led dialogue process.

Many emphasize the need for a more inclusive and representative process, one that truly reflects the diverse voices and perspectives of South African society. The distinction between the convention and the National Dialogue process is also crucial, with the convention's legitimacy and effectiveness depending on its ability to engage a broad range of stakeholders and address the country's pressing challenges.

The success of the National Dialogue process hinges on its ability to build trust and credibility among all stakeholders. The current controversy surrounding the convention may undermine its legitimacy and impact. The way forward will require careful consideration of the concerns raised by the legacy foundations and other stakeholders. A more inclusive and transparent process will be essential to ensuring the National Dialogue's success.

Despite withdrawing from the convention, the legacy foundations remain committed to the National Dialogue's objectives. They plan to re-engage with civil society to promote a meaningful and inclusive dialogue process. The foundations believe that the National Dialogue is a generational opportunity to reimagine the country and save it from the abyss.

In conclusion, the withdrawal of the legacy foundations from the National Dialogue Convention highlights the need for a more inclusive and transparent process. The success of the National Dialogue depends on its ability to engage a broad range of stakeholders and address the country's pressing challenges. The legacy foundations' commitment to the National Dialogue's objectives is a positive step towards promoting a meaningful and inclusive dialogue process.