By: Bright Ntuli
President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced plans to convene a National Dialogue, saying there is broad consensus that such an initiative is necessary, given the significant social, economic, and political challenges facing South Africa.
Speaking at a media briefing on Tuesday, the President said the country stands at a “defining moment” and must come together to rebuild trust, promote social cohesion, and develop shared solutions to ongoing crises such as poverty, inequality, and political instability.
To this end, Ramaphosa has appointed a 32-member Eminent Persons Group to guide and champion the National Dialogue Initiative. The group comprises respected leaders from various sectors, including civil society, the judiciary, business, sport, and faith-based organisations.
Notable members of the group include:
- Dr Brigalia Bam, former chairperson of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC)
- Justice Edwin Cameron, retired Constitutional Court judge and current Chancellor of Stellenbosch University
- Siya Kolisi, captain of the Springboks and advocate for youth empowerment
- Roelf Meyer, former Cabinet Minister and one of the key negotiators of South Africa’s democratic transition
President Ramaphosa also announced that a National Convention will be held on 15 August 2025, bringing together representatives from political parties, labour, business, civil society, traditional leadership, and faith communities. The aim is to foster inclusive dialogue on the country’s future and to chart a collective path forward.
“This process is not about any one party or ideology, but about building a national consensus on how we move forward as a country,” Ramaphosa said.
The National Dialogue Initiative is seen as part of efforts to counter rising political polarisation, address governance concerns, and restore public confidence in democratic institutions, especially in the wake of the recent general elections, which resulted in a hung Parliament.
Further details on the structure and agenda of the National Convention are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
