Cape Town – Several prominent foundations, including the Steve Biko, Thabo Mbeki, and Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundations, have reportedly withdrawn from the Preparatory Task Team and the upcoming National Dialogue Convention scheduled for 15 August 2025.
In a joint statement, the group cited concerns about a shift from a citizen-led initiative to one increasingly controlled by government officials.
They criticised the rushed timeline, lack of readiness, absence of an approved budget, and potential legal violations related to emergency procurement.
“What began as a citizen-led initiative has unfortunately in practice shifted towards government control,” the foundations said.
“In pushing forward for a Convention on 15 August at the will of government officials and against the advice of the Sub-Committee Chairs, we believe that a critical moment in which citizens should be leading will be undermined.
The FW de Klerk, Steve Biko, Thabo Mbeki, Chief Albert Luthuli, Tambo, Tutu Legacy Foundations & Strategic Dialogue Group have formally withdrawn from the 15 Aug National Dialogue Convention, citing a breach of core principles.
Read the statement: https://t.co/vVv1hXhh6t pic.twitter.com/kcWDvmerj0— FW de Klerk Foundation (@fwdeklerkfdn) August 8, 2025
“Deadlines cannot override substance. Dialogue cannot be locked in haste.”
The foundations warned that the planned event risks being symbolic rather than substantive and proposed postponing the convention to 15 December 2025 to allow for proper preparation and ensure public trust, participation, and credibility.
They emphasised their continued commitment to a genuine, citizen-led National Dialogue.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
