Day 1 of National Convention kicks off
The gathering, seen as a precursor to the National Dialogue, aims to bring together political parties, civil organisations, and other stakeholders to address South Africa's most pressing challenges.
However, not everyone is on board. Former President Thabo Mbeki's foundation, ActionSA, and the Freedom Front Plus have withdrawn, questioning the credibility of the process.
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Eyewitness News
25 minutes ago
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[WATCH] ‘We will be direct and honest' – Cyril Ramaphosa at the National Convention
JOHANNESBURG - President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the opening address at the National Dialogue, a platform aimed at fostering inclusive discussions around South Africa's pressing socio-economic and political issues. Ramaphosa acknowledged that 'many things are broken' in the country, setting the tone for a series of conversations meant to address national challenges and develop collaborative solutions. The dialogue brings together leaders from civil society, government, and various sectors to chart a path forward for the nation.
Eyewitness News
25 minutes ago
- Eyewitness News
Chaotic start to National Dialogue as delegates criticise government
JOHANNESBURG - It's been a chaotic first leg of the National Dialogue, with some delegates at its precursor event, the national convention taking government to task over the state of the country. On Friday, the convention kicked off at UNISA's main campus in Pretoria. Representatives from civil society, NGOs and other sectoral groups met to finalise the modalities of the engagements, which will take place over the next nine months, across the country. READ: Government to utilise own facilities for National Dialogue to cut costs The National Dialogue got off to an uncomfortable start with one of the attendees fainting and requiring medical assistance. At one point, a man wandered onto the stage and started arguing with a panel member before he was ushered away by security. Some delegates were unhappy with not being given platforms to address the government officials in attendance. 'We are foot soldiers, we know what's happening on the ground, and if you say it's a national dialogue for us, you can't shut us down. It's sad that you're here because the 2026 elections are coming and you're trying to buy our silence.' Another delegate accused the government of failing to uphold its commitments, stating: 'The government has not kept its commitment, they are liars; they want you to go out so that we cannot address you on the crimes of the government, government is.' Organisers of the National Dialogue said they are aiming to engage at least ten million South Africans by the end of the process.
eNCA
an hour ago
- eNCA
Convention under way despite controversy
JOHANNESBURG - The first National Convention is now under way. The entire National Dialogue process seeks to bring together South Africans from all walks of life to discuss the country's most pressing challenges. IN PICS | Day 1 of National Convention kicks off But will it produce real solutions, and will they be implemented? Or will it prove to be yet another costly talk shop?
