For Creamer Media in Johannesburg, I’m Thabi Shomolekae.

Making headlines: Mbeki hits back at Steenhuisen for DA’s withdrawal from National Dialogue; Ramaphosa welcomes Austrian President, cites economic opportunities; And, Politicians mourn David Mabuza’s passing 

Mbeki hits back at Steenhuisen for DA’s withdrawal from National Dialogue

Former President Thabo Mbeki has sharply criticised Democratic Alliance leader John Steenhuisen over the party’s decision to withdraw from the upcoming National Dialogue, calling the move “misplaced” and “very strange indeed”.

In an open letter addressed to the DA leader, Mbeki accused the party of undermining an inclusive, citizen-led initiative that intends to create a new national consensus. He argued that the DA’s continued participation in the Government of National Unity, while refusing to engage in dialogue, meant to shape the country’s political future, represents a contradictory and ill-considered stance.

The DA made the decision to withdraw from the National Dialogue following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to remove DA Deputy Minister Andrew Whitfield from his position.

Mbeki accused Steenhuisen and the DA of having serious problems with Ramaphosa and the ANC, following Whitfield’s removal. He urged Steenhuisen to reconsider the boycott and to instead “engage honestly and openly” in a national effort to rebuild trust, tackle inequality and strengthen constitutional democracy.

Ramaphosa welcomes Austrian President, cites economic opportunities

President Cyril Ramaphosa said that as South Africa strives to achieve energy security through investment in renewable and other clean energy, it looks forward to expanding its cooperation with Austria.

Ramaphosa hosted Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen today, on his first State Visit, at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

Van der Bellen’s visit to South Africa was postponed twice owing to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Ramaphosa said the long-awaited visit presents an opportunity to consolidate the long-standing and strong relationship between South Africa and Austria, in areas of arts and culture, higher education, renewable energy, trade and investment, and waste management.

The South Africa government has noted the launch of Austria’s first green hydrogen production facility in 2023, and is eager to explore the Green Hydrogen Economy Strategy and avenues for cooperation.

Austria’s comprehensive national Africa Strategy is also intended to expand cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, digitalisation, energy, environmental and climate technologies.

And, Politicians mourn David Mabuza’s passing 

South African politicians have expressed sadness on the passing of former Deputy President David Mabuza, with many remembering his leadership.

Mabuza passed away in hospital on Thursday, following a short illness. He was 65 years of age.

President Cyril Ramaphosa offered his condolences to Mabuza’s wife, and his children.

GOOD Party leader Patricia de Lille remembered Mabuza an exemplary chair of intergovernmental forums, noting that his meetings were marked by “punctuality, clarity of purpose, and firm outcomes”.

Inkatha Freedom Party leader Velenkosini Hlabisa said Mabuza was a leader who dedicated his life to the betterment of others.

ActionSA president Herman Mashaba described Mabuza as a significant figure in South African politics, noting his contributions and influence, which spanned decades, saying they will leave a lasting mark on the country’s democratic journey.

That’s a roundup of news making headlines today

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