EFF Slams National Dialogue as “Political Theatre” Amid South Africa’s Deepening Crisis

In a country weary from broken promises, rolling blackouts, and sky-high unemployment, President Cyril Ramaphosa’s latest pitch for unity a National Dialogue has landed with more skepticism than applause. And the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) are having none of it.

In a sharply worded statement, the red-bereted party didn’t mince words, labelling the upcoming National Dialogue a “political stunt” designed to deflect blame from what they see as three decades of ANC failure. The dialogue, which is set to begin in August with a National Convention, has been billed by the President as a “new chapter” for South Africa’s democracy.

But the EFF is not buying the narrative.

Not Another Rainbow Moment

Ramaphosa’s call for a dialogue echoed the language of the early ’90s when the country, bruised and bloodied from apartheid, held historic negotiations to birth the Rainbow Nation. This time, though, the EFF argues that the metaphor falls flat.

“There is no historic rupture,” the EFF statement said, “only the cumulative decay of ANC misrule.” For the EFF, the current crises—unemployment, corruption, landlessness, gender-based violence aren’t new. They are the result of policies (or lack thereof) since 1994.

“This isn’t 1994 again,” a Johannesburg-based political analyst posted on X (formerly Twitter). “People want food, jobs, safety. Not another talk shop.”

A Cast of “Eminent” Voices But At What Cost?

One thing that has caught the public’s attention is the list of 30 “eminent persons” chosen to lead this process. Among them are beloved figures like actor Dr. John Kani and rugby hero Siya Kolisi, alongside respected judges, business leaders, scientists, and religious figures.

While many have praised the diversity and stature of the group, the EFF insists the panel is stacked with ANC sympathizers and individuals who allegedly backed Ramaphosa’s internal party campaigns.

“This is not a gathering of independent voices,” the EFF claimed, “but a carefully curated panel to rubber-stamp the status quo.”

A Broken Nation Seeking Healing or Just Another Distraction?

In his announcement, Ramaphosa acknowledged the gravity of South Africa’s problems.

“Millions of people are underemployed or unemployed,” he said. “Many who work earn wages that cannot sustain their families. Crime, gender-based violence, and corruption are prevalent.”

His hope is that by bringing diverse South Africans together, the country can chart a more united path forward. But critics, including opposition parties and everyday citizens, worry this is just another glossy campaign with no teeth.

Local activists point out that communities continue to battle without water, electricity, or functioning policing, despite years of promises. “Dialogue is good,” said one Soweto resident in a radio call-in show, “but we’re tired of talking while nothing changes.”

What the EFF Wants Instead

For the EFF, the solution is not social cohesion through dialogue but radical accountability. They believe systemic reform is necessary land reform, nationalisation of key industries, and prosecution of those responsible for looting state resources.

“The people of this country do not need therapy,” the EFF said, “they need justice, jobs, and land.”

A Country at a Crossroads

South Africa is at a precarious moment. The 2024 elections failed to produce a single-party majority, leading to a coalition government between unlikely partners. Now, with the country’s political future hanging in the balance, the National Dialogue could be a moment of renewal or just more smoke and mirrors.

As one Cape Town resident put it on Facebook, “We don’t need another Commission. We need change. And fast.”

Will the National Dialogue be a turning point or a talking point? South Africans will find out soon enough.

{Source: Jacarandfm}

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