President Ramaphosa Addresses Gender-Based Violence and U.S. Visa Restrictions
President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa has publicly addressed the ongoing crisis of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in the country, stating that women should not have to live in fear of men. His comments were made on the sidelines of an African National Congress (ANC) fundraising event in Woodmead, marking his first public appearance since returning from the BRICS Summit in India. Ramaphosa acknowledged the widespread fear among women due to GBVF, particularly in light of recent murders in Ekurhuleni, which have fueled concerns about a possible serial killer. He emphasized that the government views GBVF as a disaster and is actively working to address the problem, with the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide reviewing a plan to tackle the crisis. Additionally, President Ramaphosa commented on actions taken by the White House regarding U.S. visa restrictions for certain South Africans, asserting the government's commitment to protecting its sovereignty.