National Dialogue: Can It Deliver Real Change Amid Concerns and Withdrawals?

As South Africa gears up for the National Dialogue Convention on August 15–16, questions are mounting about its credibility and purpose. With legacy institutions like the Thabo Mbeki Foundation and the Steve Biko Foundation pulling out citing government interference, lack of funding clarity, and a rushed process scepticism is growing. In studio, Govan Whittles standing in for Phemelo hosts a panel with some of the key voices behind the dialogue: Spokesperson Rev Zwoitwaho Nevhutalu, Eminent Persons Group Secretary Nompendulo Mkhatshwa, and civil society leaders Mazibuko Jara and Nonkululeko Mntambo. What’s the goal? Can this national conversation lead to real reform or is it just another political theatre? We also hear from listeners across the country on their sentiments on the dialogue.