South Africa’s ‘National Dialogue’ will not contribute to a solution

Lex Libertas Media Statement 6 August 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

South Africa’s ‘National Dialogue’ will not contribute to a solution

Pretoria — The South African government’s proposed “National Dialogue” has been described by the think tank and advocacy group Lex Libertas as a costly and ineffective distraction that risks delaying the urgent reforms required to address the country’s deepening constitutional crisis.

President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the initiative following mounting international concern over South Africa’s deteriorating condition—characterised by destructive policies, widespread state failure, and the persecution of minority communities.

However, as Lex Libertas outlines in its recent report, Reclaiming Freedom, these issues are not the crisis in itself, but rather symptoms of a deeper systemic failure. South Africa is vast, diverse, and economically vulnerable, yet it is governed by a self-proclaimed racial nationalist, socialist administration through a highly centralised system that is increasingly out of touch with realities on the ground.

The proposed National Dialogue, expected to cost over R700 million (approximately $40 million), is to be “championed” by a so-called Eminent Persons Group. Yet the structure of the initiative appears designed to amplify voices aligned with the ideological worldview of the ruling African National Congress (ANC), while minimising or marginalising dissenting perspectives.

Dr Ernst Roets, Executive Director of Lex Libertas, stated:
“South Africa’s political system is like a collapsing house, and this National Dialogue is a conversation about how best to paint over the cracks. What is needed is not cosmetic change, but a complete reassessment of the foundation. That foundation must be decentralisation to ensure self-governance for the diverse peoples who live in South Africa.”

Lex Libertas is a think tank and advocacy group working towards a viable political dispensation in South Africa, based on the principles of freedom, decentralisation, and self-governance.

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