Note to editors: a digital copy of the letter can be accessed here.
Build One South Africa (BOSA) Leader, Dr Mmusi Maimane, has today written to President Cyril Ramaphosa calling for urgent transparency over the funding, structure, and authenticity of the upcoming National Dialogue process, set to begin this Friday, 15 August 2025.
While reaffirming BOSA’s long-standing support for the principle of a National Dialogue as a critical instrument for South Africa’s growth and renewal, Maimane warned that without public trust, inclusivity, and accountability, the process risks failure.
“There will be no public tolerance for failure. Without transparency, genuine inclusivity, and a clear plan for follow-through, the National Dialogue lacks the gravitas and authenticity it requires,” said Maimane.
BOSA has, for more than 14 months, consistently called for a citizen-led dialogue to forge genuine consensus on South Africa’s way forward.
However, we recognise that the success of any genuine National Dialogue depends on the trust and confidence of the people it seeks to serve. Over recent weeks, concerns have been mounting from respected organisations, prominent individuals, and ordinary South Africans about whether this process is being conducted with the openness, inclusivity, and integrity it requires.
Questions around its funding, transparency, and authenticity cannot be ignored, as they strike at the heart of whether the outcomes will truly reflect the will of the nation. Therefore, the letter to President Ramaphosa raises the following:
- Transparency of Funding – No public clarity exists on the total budget for the Dialogue or the 15 August event, the departments or budget lines funding it, or the spending plan. As Chairperson of the Appropriations Committee, Dr Maimane has formally requested this information from the National Treasury.
- Citizen-Led Process – Signs are emerging that the process may be shifting from a citizen-led initiative to a government-led and politically managed one.
- Inclusivity – Lack of transparent criteria for inviting and empowering participants risks bias and exclusion.
- Substance vs. Symbolism – Without a sustained programme of sectoral, community, and citizen-led dialogues beyond 15 August, the event risks being a symbolic showcase without real policy impact.
- Risk of Party-Political Capture – Any perception that the process is controlled by a single party or faction will undermine public trust.
In his letter, Dr Maimane asked the President to respond directly to the following key questions:
- What is the total budget for the National Dialogue and the 15 August event?
- From which departments or budget lines is this funding being drawn?
- How is Parliament being engaged on the use of public funds?
- Who are the members of the Organising Team and what are their roles?
- What systems are in place for transparency and accountability?
- How will participant inputs be captured, published, and acted upon?
- What safeguards will ensure the Dialogue remains truly citizen-led?
“The national mood is one of deep mistrust in government. Patience has waned, and citizens are disillusioned. Unless this process unfolds in full view of the public – with their aspirations and voices at the centre – it will be meaningless,” Maimane concluded.
Media Enquiries:
Roger Solomons – BOSA Spokesperson – 072 299 3551