Deputy President Paul Mashatile has emphasised that the immediate priority of the National Dialogue steering committee must be to conclude all outstanding governance and participation issues, ahead of the upcoming local government elections.

Mashatile stressed that these foundational matters must be resolved to strengthen unity and solidify public confidence in the ongoing political and social process.

The Deputy President called on all sectors to immediately finalise implementation plans, mobilisation strategies and dialogue methodologies.

Mashatile met with the National Dialogue steering committee on Wednesday following months of intense grassroots mobilisation.

Mashatile welcomed a comprehensive progress report presented by the committee, noting that the groundwork laid over the past few months proves the vision of a citizen-led National Dialogue remains vibrant and continues to gain momentum across broader society.

The Deputy President highlighted several key sectoral milestones that have advanced the initiative, noting that the Youth sector has developed its own independent coordination framework, successfully resolved internal organisational matters, and officially commenced preparations for upcoming youth-led dialogue processes.

He said people with disabilities have successfully convened broad consultations and submitted critical, structured recommendations focused heavily on improving accessibility, participation, and social inclusion.

Civil society and faith-based groups have demonstrated a deep commitment to ensuring local communities are fully mobilised and structurally prepared to participate.

According to Mashatile, recently conducted pilot dialogues have yielded “invaluable insights”.

He assured that the trial runs have shown that citizens across various demographics are willing to engage constructively with the complex challenges facing South Africa, frequently contributing highly practical, localised solutions.

Furthermore, the implementation of these pilots highlights the success of a "whole-of-society" operational approach.

Provincial governments and local stakeholders stepped forward to provide essential logistical support, seamlessly managing security coordination, transport arrangements, and necessary regulatory approvals, he added.

Mashatile issued a reminder that the National Dialogue ultimately belongs to the people of South Africa, rather than political frameworks.

"The conversations held thus far demonstrate that citizens are ready to engage honestly about the challenges facing our country and to contribute solutions," Mashatile pointed out.

"Our responsibility is to ensure that these voices are heard, that the process remains credible and inclusive, and that the outcomes translate into meaningful action that improves the lives of our people," he concluded.