By Johnathan Paoli
The Presidency has denied an escalation of tensions between President Cyril Ramaphosa and Thabo Mbeki, insisting they maintain a “cordial, comradely” relationship.
This follows several legacy foundations, including the Thabo Mbeki Foundation, withdrawing from the National Dialogue. Earlier this week, Mbeki’s foundation also dismissed the legitimacy of this weekend’s National Convention, which is meant to frame the upcoming dialogue.
Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya told reporters on Thursday that Ramaphosa harboured no ill will towards Mbeki.
“For President Ramaphosa, the relationship with former president Mbeki is one that is cordial, or rather comradely cordial, as well as professional. With that, the president also recognises and accepts that he’s not above criticism, and that we live in a democracy where there’s free speech and people are welcome to openly criticise him,” Magwenya said.
Mbeki, through his foundation, has been one of the most vocal advocates for a broad, citizen-led
You’ve reached your free article limit
Subscribe to enjoy unlimited access to trusted journalism. Cancel anytime.
Subscribe nowNeed help? molokom@insidepolitic.co.za
