Gwede Mantashe Criticizes Withdrawals from National Dialogue at UNISA Convention

Pretoria, Gauteng – The first National Convention of the National Dialogue commenced today at UNISA’s main campus, with discussions set to continue tomorrow. The event seeks to unite South Africans to deliberate on critical national issues, with a follow-up convention planned for early 2026 to evaluate outcomes.

Mantashe Responds to Party Withdrawals

Speaking to SABC News, Gwede Mantashe, Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources and senior ANC leader, addressed concerns about some parties withdrawing from the process. He stressed that no individual or organization “owns” the national dialogue, which is designed to encourage open and inclusive conversations among all South Africans.

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“Legitimacy is earned through active participation, not by controlling the process,” Mantashe said, highlighting that those who withdrew did so to assert control rather than genuinely contribute to national discussions.

Purpose of the National Dialogue

Mantashe emphasized that the dialogue is non-partisan and intended solely to foster meaningful engagement. Responding to concerns about political hijacking, he clarified, “We must go and have South Africans talking to one another, and people who want to be part of a conversation come to the conversation.”

The convention’s program officially began as Mantashe and other delegates entered the main auditorium, signaling the start of two days of discussions aimed at shaping South Africa’s future and promoting inclusive civic engagement.

READ: Khoi and San Communities Protest Exclusion from National Dialogue at UNISA

Key Takeaways

• The National Dialogue Convention brings together civil society, grassroots representatives, and political stakeholders.
• Follow-up discussions are scheduled for early 2026 to assess progress and outcomes.
• Active participation is central to the legitimacy of the dialogue, according to ANC leaders.
• The convention underscores the importance of open, non-partisan conversations on national priorities.