South African President Cyril Ramaphosa convened the inaugural meeting of the National Dialogue Eminent Persons Group at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on July 11, 2025. The group was appointed last month to guide and champion the National Dialogue initiative aimed at promoting social cohesion and nation-building in South Africa. Participants in the meeting included notable figures such as former DA MP Lindiwe Mazibuko, storyteller Gcina Mhlophe, actor John Kani, and reigning Miss South Africa Mia Le Roux. In his opening remarks, Ramaphosa emphasized that the National Dialogue is not intended to disrupt democratic processes outlined in the South African constitution. He urged the group to act as champions of the dialogue using their expertise rather than as representatives of any specific groupings. The President also welcomed criticism as a sign of public investment in the country's future. The National Dialogue has faced criticism and skepticism since its announcement, with some viewing it as unnecessary or ineffective. Ramaphosa established the Eminent Persons Group to lend credibility and direction to the process, which remains under public scrutiny as it progresses.