WATCH | Premier says ‘Ben 10s’ are the downfall of women in leadership

Dr Phophi Ramathuba

Cape Town – Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba has cautioned women in leadership positions against allowing their younger romantic partners, commonly referred to as “Ben 10s”, to influence their personal lives or decision-making.

Ramathuba made the remarks on Wednesday during the official handover of a newly built house to the family of conjoined twins in Lulekani.

Addressing attendees, the premier said women in positions of authority should remain focused on their responsibilities and not allow personal relationships to interfere with their public duties.

Reflecting on her own experience in public office, Ramathuba said she had been warned when she was first appointed as a Member of the Executive Council (MEC) about people who might seek to influence her.

She said women in politics were particularly vulnerable to manipulation and argued that the influence of younger romantic partners had contributed to the downfall of some women leaders.

“As women, especially us women in politics, I think maybe I must say it today. The downfall of us women… is because of Ben 10s,” Ramathuba said.

She urged women entrusted with leadership positions to remain focused on serving the public and to safeguard the responsibilities they have been given.

Ramathuba’s comments came as she addressed the beneficiaries of the newly built home, emphasising the importance of protecting assets intended for future generations. She said those who had not contributed towards such achievements should not be allowed to claim ownership or influence decisions surrounding them.

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Compiled by Glaan Sibuyi

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