R700 million ‘National Dialogue’ ignores evangelical voices

On behalf of SAFI (the South African Friends of Israel), I must share how deeply dismayed we are by the shocking absence of evangelical representation on the panel of “eminent persons” selected for President Ramaphosa’s R700 million National Dialogue.

While the President insists the dialogue is meant to be citizen-led and non-partisan, the deliberate exclusion of evangelical voices, such as those of Pastor Bert Pretorius, who represents over 19,900 churches and half of South Africa’s Christian population, raises serious concerns about the inclusivity and legitimacy of the initiative.

This glaring omission undermines the credibility of a process billed as a path toward national unity. Faith-based organisations have always been central to South Africa’s moral and political awakening, from resisting Apartheid to fostering reconciliation. Ignoring their contribution today suggests this dialogue is less about unity and more about political optics - perhaps even a thinly veiled prelude to the ANC’s local election campaign.

South Africans have already spoken through the ballot box in 2024, giving rise to a Government of National Unity. What citizens demand now is implementation, not more rhetoric. With unemployment at 32.9%, basic services failing, and daily life growing more difficult, a taxpayer-funded talkshop feels like a distraction at best and an insult at worst.

It’s time to govern, not consult.

Daniel Jacobi

Executive Director, South African Friends of Israel