Johannesburg – ANC stalwart Derek Hanekom has publicly criticised the party’s National Dialogue, calling the event “embarrassing” and urging government officials to limit sharing images and videos from the gathering.
The former tourism minister took to social media on Friday as photos and clips from the dialogue circulated online. *“Dear South African Government, you would be well advised not to post too many clips of this event. The embarrassment is unbearable,”* Hanekom wrote, sparking heated debate.
Organised under President Cyril Ramaphosa’s leadership, the National Dialogue aimed to unite political parties, civil society, and business leaders to tackle South Africa’s crises—including unemployment, crime, and service delivery failures. But Hanekom’s remarks suggest the event fell short of its intended image of unity and productivity.
While he didn’t specify his concerns, some attendees and observers criticised the dialogue for disorganisation, lacklustre discussions, and vague outcomes. Opposition parties quickly amplified Hanekom’s comments, framing them as proof of internal ANC disillusionment.
Social media reactions were divided, with some praising Hanekom’s candour and others accusing him of airing grievances publicly rather than addressing them within party structures. Known for his anti-corruption stance, the ANC veteran has previously clashed with party leadership over governance failures.
His latest critique raises fresh doubts about whether the National Dialogue represents a sincere effort to solve South Africa’s problems or merely a performative exercise. As the event continues, scrutiny grows over whether the ANC can recalibrate its messaging—or if Hanekom’s warning will prove prophetic.
Government spokespersons have yet to respond to his comments. Meanwhile, the online backlash over the dialogue’s optics underscores the ANC’s struggle to project credibility amid mounting public frustration.