President Cyril Ramaphosa wants South Africans to talk about fixing their problems. He announced a National Convention for this purpose. The country faces serious troubles with unemployment rising and the economy struggling. Coalition government has made little progress on major issues. Many people remain without jobs or proper income.
The plan sounds good but raises important questions. Few leaders give up power willingly. Ramaphosa seems ready to accept whatever deal comes from these talks. The ANC might not be able to stop any agreement that emerges. This suggests he knows his party may never hold much state power again.
Thirty-one people will guide the process from different backgrounds. The list contains rugby players, business leaders, religious figures and entertainers. Missing are representatives for unemployed people who need help most. Former president Thabo Mbeki pushed for these talks but was left out. Public meetings will happen across the country but organized groups often dominate such events.
Past public hearings show consultation can be ignored when economic reality hits. Electricity prices rose 653 percent since 2007 despite public opposition. This new process has no legal power to force decisions. Violence could emerge as some political figures oppose the Constitution and have used force before.
The plan sounds good but raises important questions. Few leaders give up power willingly. Ramaphosa seems ready to accept whatever deal comes from these talks. The ANC might not be able to stop any agreement that emerges. This suggests he knows his party may never hold much state power again.
Thirty-one people will guide the process from different backgrounds. The list contains rugby players, business leaders, religious figures and entertainers. Missing are representatives for unemployed people who need help most. Former president Thabo Mbeki pushed for these talks but was left out. Public meetings will happen across the country but organized groups often dominate such events.
Past public hearings show consultation can be ignored when economic reality hits. Electricity prices rose 653 percent since 2007 despite public opposition. This new process has no legal power to force decisions. Violence could emerge as some political figures oppose the Constitution and have used force before.
