Mbeki’s Letter Sparks Political Clash
The countdown to South Africa’s National Dialogue — starting 15 August 2025 — has been rocked by the Democratic Alliance’s sudden withdrawal.
In an 11-page open letter to DA leader John Steenhuisen, former President Thabo Mbeki dismantles the party’s decision, calling it “misplaced” and “very strange indeed.”
Why the DA Pulled Out
The party quit the process after President Cyril Ramaphosa fired DA Deputy Minister Andrew Whitfield.
The DA had demanded the removal of three ANC ministers linked to corruption — a demand ignored by Ramaphosa.
Helen Zille’s “Sham” Comment
DA Federal Chair Helen Zille branded the Dialogue “a cover for the ANC’s 2026 election campaign” and “a hollow exercise.”
Mbeki accuses her of showing contempt for ordinary South Africans and misrepresenting the process as ANC-run.
Citizen-Led, Not ANC-Controlled
Mbeki stresses the Dialogue is run by civil society, not the ANC.
Over 50 organisations — from business to faith groups — form the Preparatory Task Team.
They’ve spent nine months planning the event with full independence from government control.
Who Will Be at the Table
At least 20 constituencies will send delegates — including women, youth, traditional leaders, faith groups, academia, and business.
Each will pick its own representatives without political interference.
The Stakes
Mbeki calls the National Dialogue a “Parliament of the People” — the first of its kind in South Africa.
He warns the DA risks isolating itself from a rare chance to shape the country’s future.
A History Lesson
Mbeki ends with a jab, quoting Bertolt Brecht’s satirical poem The Solution, comparing the DA’s stance to a party telling citizens to win back its confidence — or be replaced.
Bottom Line
The letter is more than a political spat — it’s a warning.
For Mbeki, the National Dialogue is a once-in-a-generation opportunity.
For the DA, staying out could mean losing its voice in shaping South Africa’s path forward.
