JOHANNESBURG – The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation successfully hosted the latest instalment of its Legacy Fundraising Breakfast Series on Thursday, 21 May 2026, featuring former President Kgalema Motlanthe. The engagement, held at Rooftop Café and Padel in Lenasia, brought together a diverse group of civil society, business, and community leaders for a critical reflection on the current state of South Africa’s democracy
In a wide-ranging and candid conversation titled “The State of South Africa Today,” Motlanthe addressed the erosion of ethical governance, and the widening disconnect between elected officials and the lived realities of ordinary South Africans
“We are witnessing a dangerous weakening of accountability mechanisms,” Motlanthe stated. He cautioned that reducing politics to factional battles and personality contests directly undermines the stability needed to address persistent unemployment, poverty, and corruption
Key themes from the discussion included:
- The Governance Deficit: A reflection on the growing crisis of public trust in institutions and the urgent need for ethical, principled leadership
- Institutional Integrity: The importance of safeguarding accountability mechanisms against political complacency
- Active Citizenship: The recurring responsibility of citizens to remain engaged in democratic processes far beyond the ballot box
- Economic Inclusion: The ongoing work of social and economic justice, particularly for young people who continue to face systemic barriers to opportunity
The Foundation believes that spaces for honest dialogue remain essential as South Africans increasingly seek practical solutions to the country’s challenges. This series continues the legacy of anti-apartheid activist Ahmed Kathrada by promoting non-racialism and the values of the South African Constitution
The full discussion can be viewed here.
ENDS
About the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation:
The Foundation aims to deepen non-racialism and promote the values of the South African Constitution. It continues the legacy of anti-apartheid activist Ahmed Kathrada by advocating for ethical leadership and social justice.
Media Enquiries:
Anele Gcwabe
Communications Manager
083 278 8832
anele@kathradafoundation.org
