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Mbeki Foundation Withdraws from National Dialogue Over Budget Doubts

Published

3 weeks ago

August 11, 2025

Chiraag

Mbeki Foundation withdrawal, National Dialogue budget issue, R700 million South Africa, Steve Biko Foundation exit, Desmond and Leah Tutu Foundation, FW de Klerk Foundation, Tinyiko Maluleke controversy, UNISA host, Joburg ETC

With just days until the National Dialogue Convention, former president Thabo Mbeki has pulled his foundation out of the government-led initiative meant to bring South Africans together. The reason: serious doubts over the R700 million budget and the rush to launch it this Friday.

Legacy foundations pull back

Joining Mbeki’s organisation in withdrawing are the Steve Biko Foundation, the Desmond and Leah Tutu Foundation, and the FW de Klerk Foundation. Their joint statement makes clear that without a confirmed budget and with internal disagreements about governance, the initiative feels more like theatre than a genuine citizen-driven process.

As Mbeki put it, they “feel the organisation of the matter was not entirely honest as to where the funds will be directed.” They’ve proposed delaying the convention until after 15 October 2025, arguing that “deadlines cannot override substance.” Dialogue cannot be built on haste.”

A controversial figure in the mix

IOL also reported that concerns were raised about the inclusion of Professor Tinyiko Maluleke, Vice-Chancellor of Tshwane University of Technology. His leadership has faced criticism over allegations linked to a promised campus for Sekhukhune youth that never materialised. That failure is seen as undermining the credibility of the dialogue from the start.

Presidency pushes ahead

Despite the backlash, President Cyril Ramaphosa has confirmed the convention will go ahead as planned. The Presidency denies any misuse of an R700 million allocation, emphasising that all funding aligns with the Public Finance Management Act. Instead, they explain that NEDLAC and the Presidency’s existing budgets are covering costs, to be reimbursed in the Adjustments Budget.

In practical support, UNISA has reportedly offered to host the event and supply logistical support at no cost. Meanwhile, the Inter-Ministerial Committee is working to secure resources and manage costs responsibly.