Hlabisa calls for a cost-effective National Dialogue

INKATHA Freedom Party (IFP) leader Velenkosini Hlabisa says the upcoming National Dialogue must not be a costly talk shop, but rather a serious, inclusive, and solution-driven process to address South Africa's longstanding social, political, and economic challenges.

- HOPE NTANZI

Speaking in his capacity as part of the cabinet preparatory team for the Dialogue, Hlabisa expressed concern over the excessive budget allocated for the process and called for a comprehensive review of its costs.

The IFP views the National Dialogue, set to take place on August 15, as a continuation of the CODESA talks that ushered in political freedom in 1994 but left many key issues unresolved.

“We are opposed to the excessive cost in relation to the National Dialogue.” said Hlabisa. “It must not be done at an exorbitant price”

He specially raised alarm over the reported R700 million earmarked for the Dialogue, calling it unjustifiable in a country grappling with deep poverty and inequality.