Ramaphosa: Abuse, rape and killing of women not our heritage

President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that the abuse, rape and killing of women is not part of South Africa’s heritage, calling on the nation to confront the scourge of gender-based violence.

The abuse, rape and killing of women is not our heritage. It is a blight on our nation, a violation of our values and a betrayal of the struggle for freedom.

Speaking on the issue, the President emphasized that the country must move beyond mere condemnation and take decisive action to protect women and children. He highlighted that the safety of women is a fundamental human right that must be upheld by all sectors of society.

We must ensure that our justice system is responsive, that our police are effective, and that our communities are safe spaces for all. We cannot remain silent while our sisters, mothers and daughters are subjected to such brutality.

Ramaphosa urged men to take a leading role in ending the violence, stating that the responsibility lies with society as a whole to change the culture of impunity that often surrounds these crimes.