Kgalema Motlanthe sets the record straight: 'We never withdrew from National Dialogue'
Former President Kgalema Motlanthe has firmly dismissed claims that his foundation withdrew from last week’s National Dialogue Convention, stating that such reports are misleading and inaccurate.
In a statement issued by the Kgalema Motlanthe Foundation (KMF), it was clarified that, unlike the Thabo Mbeki, FW de Klerk, and Desmond and Leah Tutu foundations—which pulled out of the process over disputes with the Presidency regarding timelines and budgetary concerns—Motlanthe’s foundation was never part of the convention’s preparatory committee.
Motlanthe revealed he was invited to attend the gathering in his capacity, but had longstanding commitments tied to the foundation’s work.
“In the light of several recent publications suggesting that I have withdrawn from the National Convention, it is important to state that the KMF was never part of any federation of foundations, nor part of any preparatory task teams that make up the committees of the National Convention of South Africa, respectively.
“It stands to reason that there is no way that we could have officially withdrawn from a process that we were not involved in forming and not a full participant in,” the statement read.
“As a result, I was unfortunately unable to attend the National Convention at UNISA. However, I sent a letter of support dated August 13, 2025, to the Secretariat of the National Dialogue.”
The withdrawal of key legacy foundations cast a shadow over the convention’s credibility, sparking public skepticism.
Many South Africans have voiced growing frustration over what they perceive as a lack of transparency, rushed planning, and political posturing behind the so-called National Dialogue.
Critics argue the process is increasingly alienating civil society rather than uniting it.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, in his weekly newsletter, attempted to calm tensions by announcing the establishment of a new steering committee—comprised of civil society representatives—to work alongside the group of eminent persons revealed in July.
This body, expected to be formed by the end of August, will guide the next phase of the dialogue.
Motlanthe, known for his statesmanlike tone, expressed hope that the dialogue evolves into a platform of equals.
“Each organisation contributes uniquely to our society. We must ensure all voices are heard.”
As public scrutiny deepens, the success of the National Dialogue may ultimately depend on whether it can regain trust and genuinely reflect the nation’s diverse concerns.
IOL Politics