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National Dialogue | Ramaphosa Confirms National Dialogue Will Not Use R740 Million in Taxpayer Funds
By Globalza
President Cyril Ramaphosa assures South Africans that the R740 million initially linked to the National Dialogue will not come from taxpayers’ money, emphasizing cost-effective venues and community-based discussions.
President Ramaphosa Ensures National Dialogue Won’t Burden Taxpayers
Pretoria, South Africa – President Cyril Ramaphosa has clarified that the R740 million initially associated with the National Dialogue will not be drawn from taxpayers’ funds.
Speaking on the cost of the initiative, President Ramaphosa said, “As soon as I saw the number, I said I shall not allow the taxpayers’ money that amounts to 740 million rand to be utilized. We can have this dialogue much cheaper. Lower cost must be the order of the day.”
He credited the University of South Africa (UNISA) for helping reduce expenses, noting that the university’s vice-chancellor generously offered the use of its venue at no charge. “We got it for free,” he said, adding that this approach sets the tone for cost-conscious planning of future dialogue sessions across the country.
The President emphasized that future engagements will avoid costly hotel venues. “We will hold the various dialogues in schools, in churches—not in beer halls. We will hold them under the tree and all that. That is how we are going to bring the cost down,” he explained.
President Ramaphosa’s comments reflect a broader commitment to fiscal prudence while ensuring inclusive participation in discussions meant to shape South Africa’s national priorities.
