Presidency: Ramaphosa, Mbeki's relationship remains 'cordial' despite National Dialogue differences

JOHANNESBURG - The Presidency said the relationship between Cyril Ramaphosa and former statesman Thabo Mbeki remains “cordial” despite disagreements over the National Dialogue.

Mbeki, through his foundation, has announced he will no longer be participating in the dialogue and has rejected an invitation to attend Friday’s convention. 

The former president has for years been pushing for a National Dialogue; however, he is now complaining that the event has been taken over by the government and is no longer led by citizens and civil society. 

At a media briefing in Pretoria on Thursday, Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said Ramaphosa respects and acknowledges all criticisms. 

“One would have loved and it would have been great to have the former president there but if he is not there, he is not there. The reality is the show will go on and South Africans will continue with the dialogue process and hopefully at some point, not only the Thabo Mbeki foundation but also other foundations will find it among themselves to participate in the process.”