Ramaphosa rallies nation behind bold new dialogue for South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on South Africans to rally behind a bold new initiative to rebuild the country through inclusive national dialogue, warning that the time for honest reckoning and collective action is now.

Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the National Dialogue Eminent Persons Group at the Union Buildings on Friday, Ramaphosa described the dialogue as a “historic opportunity” to forge a new social compact amid deepening inequality, poor service delivery, and growing public disillusionment.

“For all our progress over the last three decades, the legacy of apartheid continues to haunt our democracy,” Ramaphosa said.

“Unemployment, poverty, and corruption have corroded trust. Many people feel left out, and many have walked away from the democratic process.”

The National Dialogue, set to culminate in a National Convention in August, aims to reverse this trajectory by engaging all sectors of society—citizens, political parties, business, labour, and civil society—in shaping a collective vision for the country’s future.

Ramaphosa made it clear that the dialogue was not a government-led project but a citizen-driven initiative rooted in South Africa’s long-standing tradition of dialogue and consensus-building.

“This process must not be partisan, and it must not privilege one voice over another. It is not about cheerleading—it’s about critical engagement and honest reflection,” he said.

He underscored the importance of the newly appointed Eminent Persons Group—comprising respected leaders from across South African society—to act as stewards of this process.

“We ask you to be champions of the dialogue—raising alarm where people are excluded, calling out misinformation, and ensuring this platform remains open, credible and inclusive,” he said.

Ramaphosa acknowledged the political tensions and scepticism surrounding the initiative, including recent misinformation about its purpose and cost.

However, he stressed that criticism should not be feared, “Dissenting voices make us stronger. They show that people care—and want the dialogue to succeed.”

The idea for a national dialogue gained momentum last year following calls by civil society and former President Thabo Mbeki.

It has since been endorsed by the Government of National Unity (GNU) and included in the country’s Medium Term Development Plan.

“This is not the end of the journey—it is the beginning of a new chapter,” Ramaphosa concluded.

“Let us listen. Let us lead and let us rebuild.”

kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za

IOL Politics