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

President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that the abuse, rape, and killing of women in South Africa is not part of the country’s heritage. Speaking during a national address, the President emphasized that such acts of violence are a direct contradiction to the values of a free and democratic society.

The solution to violence against women cannot be to make women less free. We cannot build a safer country by turning women into prisoners of precaution.

Ramaphosa called upon men and boys across the nation to take responsibility and challenge the culture of violence. He urged citizens to confront colleagues, relatives, and peers who engage in harassment or abuse, stating that it is time for good men to stop being silent.

Challenge the colleague who harasses women. Challenge the relative who abuses his wife or girlfriend. It is time for good men to stop being silent men.

The President’s remarks come amidst a heightened national response to gender-based violence, including investigations into recent murders in Ekurhuleni. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing a comprehensive emergency response to address the crisis and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.