Cyril Ramaphosa wants another talk shop while crime and corruption destroy South Africa

OUTA CEO Wayne Duvenage criticised President Cyril Ramaphosa’s National Dialogue plan, saying it is just another distraction from the crime and corruption wrecking South Africa.

Duvenage referred to Ramaphosa’s announcement on Tuesday, 10 June 2025, about the National Dialogue initiative, which he said enjoyed great support.

“Over the last few months, we have been engaged in discussions with various entities on the purpose and the form of the National Dialogue,” he said.

Ramaphosa said there is broad agreement that, given the challenges our country is facing, they should convene the National Dialogue.

“Poverty, unemployment and inequality are deep wounds that prevent us from reaching our full potential as a nation and as a country,” he said.

“Millions of people are underemployed and unemployed. Many of those who work earn wages that cannot sustain them or their families.”

The President added that crime, gender-based violence, and corruption are prevalent across South Africa’s society.

That is why we have agreed to convene an inclusive National Dialogue. The dialogue will be a people-led, society-wide process,” he said.

“The National Dialogue is a chance for all South Africans, from all walks of life, to come together and help shape the next chapter of our democracy.”

He said the National Dialogue itself is not an event. Rather, it will be a participatory process that unfolds in phases, from local consultations to provincial and national gatherings.

“In my capacity as the Head of State, I will be calling a National Convention on Friday, the 15th of August 2025,” he said.

Ramaphosa appointed an Eminent Persons Group to guide and champion the National Dialogue initiative.

Members of the Eminent Persons Group are mostly high-profile South Africans, including Miss South Africa Mia le Roux and Springbok captain Siya Kolisi.

Others include actor John Kani, business leader Bobby Godsell, former politicians Lindiwe Mazibuko and Roel Meyer, and adventurer Sibusiso Vilane.

OUTA CEO Wayne Duvenage slates the President’s National Dialogue

OUTA CEO Wayne Duvenage described the President’s National Dialogue as just another distraction from the realities of South Africa.

“For the next while, maybe years, this dialogue process will engage with communities in various conversations across the country,” he said.

This process will result in formulating a plan for South Africa, which is already evident in the minds of many.

“Unless we can address the declining performance and decay of our criminal justice system, we will never address rampant crime and corruption,” he said.

“Without addressing this problem, we won’t stimulate confidence or investment. We won’t create jobs, and we won’t address poverty alleviation.”

He said the discussions about a better education system, improved healthcare, and the failing municipal service delivery are a waste of time.

He said these matters are well known and need no further pondering or discussion. The solutions are also evident.

“For as long as we are incapable of holding criminals, corrupt syndicates, and wasteful politicians accountable, nothing will change,” he said.

“For as long as we allow justice to be denied through an over-stretched and backlogged court system, South Africa’s prosperity will continue to languish in the doldrums of demise.”

Duvenage argued that South Africa does not need more National Dialogue. Instead, it needs political will and meaningful action.

“We need leaders who are not compromised or worried about the implications of an efficient, independent criminal justice system,” he said.