Thabo Mbeki gives reasons why his foundation withdrew from the National Dialogue
Former President Thabo Mbeki has revealed critical reasons behind his foundation’s withdrawal from the National Dialogue, a government-led initiative aimed at uniting South Africans to tackle pressing national issues. Central to Mbeki’s decision is the uncertainty surrounding the R700 million budget allocated for the dialogue.
Mbeki’s foundation, along with other notable legacy foundations, including the Steve Biko Foundation, the Desmond and Leah Tutu Foundation, and the FW de Klerk Foundation, officially withdrew from the National Dialogue Convention scheduled to commence this Friday.
Their withdrawal raises serious questions about the integrity and preparation involved in what is meant to be an inclusive and citizen-driven dialogue.
“We feel the organisation of the matter was not entirely honest as to where the funds will be directed,” Mbeki stated.
“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.”
The foundations released a joint statement outlining several issues that contributed to their decision, including a rushed timeline that has turned the convention into a mere performative milestone rather than a meaningful launch of a comprehensive national process.
To ensure that the process retains substance, the foundations have proposed rescheduling the convention to after October 15, 2025, allowing ample time for proper coordination and engagement. “Deadlines cannot override substance,” they emphasised. “Dialogue cannot be built on haste.”
The withdrawal also reflects underlying tensions, particularly concerning the inclusion of controversial Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Tinyiko Maluleke.
His leadership has been embroiled in controversy, notably regarding accusations of misappropriating the concept of a promised campus for Sekhukhune youth, which has left many young people without access to higher education opportunities.
Despite the legacy foundations stepping back from the initiative, President Cyril Ramaphosa has confirmed that the first national convention will proceed as scheduled.
The Presidency has distanced itself from the contentious R700 million budget, asserting that all budgetary processes align with the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).
It also highlighted that the Inter-Ministerial Committee is actively working to mobilise resources for the dialogue while managing costs.
“UNISA has offered to host the first National Convention and provide associated goods and services free of charge,” the Presidency stated. “Venues and logistical support are being secured without the R700 million burden.”
The costs associated with this inaugural convention are reportedly being funded through existing budgets allocated to NEDLAC and the Presidency, which are set to be reimbursed in the Adjustments Budget later this year.
IOL