The figure, initially proposed by the National Dialogue Preparatory Committee, sparked criticism from political parties, trade unions and civil society organisations questioning the necessity and affordability of the initiative.

The National Dialogue is set to commence with a National Convention on August 15, followed by a series of community engagements across the country. The initiative is intended to provide a platform for South Africans to collectively discuss solutions to the country's social, political, and economic challenges.

In response to the backlash, Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya emphasised that the figure being circulated is not an official government budget.

“There isn't a budget, there isn't a number or a cost that the government has committed to,” said Magwenya.

“All we have is what has been communicated as a proposal that the foundations have put forward. Now the foundations are not going to be the fiscal custodians of this process. Government is going to be the fiscal custodian of the process and government has not yet engaged in a process of formulating a budget. So, therefore, the debate of $43 million is completely misplaced and completely unnecessary.”

--SABC/ChannelAfrica--