Appointments of Eminent Persons for National Dialogue defended

Chairperson of the National Dialogue Preparatory Committee, Nkosinathi Biko, says the Eminent Persons Group appointed by President Cyril Ramaphosa will assist in popularising the national dialogue and inspiring the nation.

Ramaphosa has appointed an eminent persons group for the National Dialogue which includes the likes of Springbok Captain Siya Kolisi, retired Constitutional Court Judge Edwin Cameron and former MP Lindiwe Mazibuko.

The appointment of the Eminent Persons Group has been severely criticised by some political parties such as the uMkhonto weSizwe Party and the Economic Freedom Fighters.

However, Biko has defended the appointments saying they are the embodiment of what the country can achieve.

“We welcome the members of the eminent persons group, appointed by the head of state, to work with the preparatory task team to champion this process. This group of people, reflective of the diversity, backgrounds and spheres of our society, represent some of the highest achievements of our country, in various endeavors.”

Video | Ramaphosa announces national dialogue to shape SA’s future:

Earlier this week, Ramaphosa released the details of the much-anticipated National Dialogue, which will first kick off with a National Convention in August.

The phased process will begin with sectoral engagements then proceed with Provincial and National Dialogues.

In a statement, the Presidency says that preparations for the National Convention and other activities are currently being undertaken by a National Dialogue Preparatory Task Team made up of representatives from various foundations, civil society organisations and the Presidency.

It adds that foundations, together with other civil society formations that were part of the initial work of the National Dialogue, will remain centrally involved in the Preparatory Task Team.

The Office of the Presidency says that the National Dialogue will be an inclusive process in which all South Africans will have an opportunity to participate as individuals or through organised formations.