Show me the money

Some participants in the National Dialogue were disappointed to learn that they would not receive a substantial payment for their participation.

This was the reality shared by the former South African trade union leader and member of the National Dialogue Eminent Persons Group, Bheki Ntshalintshali.

Ntshalintshali previously served as organising secretary and general secretary of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU).

He formed part of the Eminent Persons Group to guide and champion the National Dialogue across South Africa.

President Cyril Ramaphosa said this group consist of leading figures in society, reflecting the great diversity of the nation.

Ramaphosa added that they have a proven commitment to the advancement of social cohesion and nation-building.

Over the weekend, a National Convention took place. Ramaphosa said this was the moment at which the people of South Africa would take over the National Dialogue.

“Delegates discussed the formation of a Steering Committee, consisting of nominees from all sectors of society, to take the process forward,” he said.

“Each of the sectors held discussions at the convention on how they would select their respective nominee for the Steering Committee by the end of August 2025.”

“They agreed that these processes need to be inclusive and that the Steering Committee needs to be representative.”

The Steering Committee would be supported and guided by the Eminent Persons Group. They will also advise the Head of State to ensure that it is inclusive and credible.

However, Ntshalintshali explained that it was difficult to elect a permanent steering committee to take the National Dialogue forward.

He explained that people held the misconception that there would be a lot of money in dealing with it.

“If I’m the organiser and I’m the leader of these things, there will be some kind of compensation coming up,” he said.

Ntshalintshali added that when it was announced that people would have to volunteer without pay, they were disappointed.

“They were just deflated. They asked, Why is there R700 million if we’re not going to be paid?”