John Steenhuisen, leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA), has announced that his party is withdrawing from the National Dialogue, calling it ineffective and politically biased.
Speaking at a press conference in Cape Town on Saturday, Steenhuisen said the DA no longer believes in the process, which was started by President Cyril Ramaphosa to encourage discussions among political and civil groups following South Africa’s coalition government formation.
“The DA has decided to leave the so-called National Dialogue. It has turned into a staged event where real concerns are ignored, and no meaningful progress is made,” Steenhuisen said. He added that while the party initially joined with good intentions, it became clear that the Dialogue was more about protecting political interests than addressing the country’s growing economic and social problems. “It’s just a talk shop—a waste of time and resources,” he said.
Steenhuisen’s comments come as tensions rise within the Government of National Unity (GNU), where the DA has repeatedly raised concerns about transparency and the ANC’s control over decisions.
Though the DA will stay in the GNU, Steenhuisen made it clear they will not take part in what he called “political theater” disguised as national unity.
The Presidency responded with disappointment, saying the National Dialogue was meant to encourage open discussions and cooperation. “We hope the DA reconsiders. South Africa needs everyone’s effort during this transition,” said presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya.
Analysts say the DA’s move highlights wider frustrations among opposition parties about power-sharing in the GNU. “This is a strategic step by the DA to separate itself from a failing process while staying in government,” said political analyst Dr. Ralph Mathekga.
With the DA’s exit, the future of the National Dialogue is now uncertain, and its credibility may be weakened.