Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba has sparked widespread discussion after warning that younger romantic partners, commonly referred to as “Ben 10s,” have contributed to the downfall of some women in leadership positions.
Ramathuba made the remarks during the handover of a newly built house to the family of conjoined twins in Lulekani, within the Ba-Phalaborwa Local Municipality in Limpopo. While addressing community members, she encouraged women holding positions of authority to remain focused on their responsibilities and avoid allowing personal relationships to interfere with their leadership.
The premier said women who rise to influential positions often attract people with hidden motives, particularly individuals hoping to benefit from their power and influence.
Reflecting on her own experience, Ramathuba revealed that she received valuable advice when she was first appointed as Limpopo’s MEC for Health in 2015. According to her, she was warned that people would suddenly begin complimenting her appearance and seeking close relationships once she entered public office.
She said some men use flattery as a way of gaining access to women who hold positions of power, with the ultimate goal of influencing decisions or benefiting from government resources.
Ramathuba explained that she had encountered similar situations throughout her political career but refused to allow herself to be manipulated. She urged women leaders to ensure that their professional decisions remain independent and based on integrity rather than personal relationships.
The premier stressed that leadership comes with responsibility and should never be handed over to individuals who have not earned the trust of the public. She criticised situations where elected leaders allegedly allow partners or other outsiders to influence government appointments, procurement processes or tender decisions.
According to Ramathuba, public office belongs to the people who elected leaders and should not be used to enrich individuals who have no role in public service.
She went on to say that, in her opinion, several women in politics have lost their positions because of younger romantic partners who gradually gained influence over their personal and professional lives.
Speaking directly to the mother of the surviving twin, Ramathuba also advised her to protect the family’s newly acquired home. She suggested that the property should be registered in the names of the children to safeguard it for their future.
The premier warned that the family’s improved circumstances could attract people who had never supported them but might now seek to benefit from their assets.
Her comments quickly generated mixed reactions on social media. While some users praised her honesty and agreed with her observations, others questioned whether it was fair to generalise about women leaders and their personal relationships.
The house handover formed part of ongoing support for the family of the conjoined twins born in January 2026 at Mankweng Tertiary Hospital. The babies were successfully separated during a complex eight-hour operation led by Professor Nyaweleni Tshifularo in March.
Sadly, one of the twins died several weeks later after developing complications that resulted in multiple organ failure. Ramathuba previously described the loss as heartbreaking while commending the medical team for successfully completing the historic separation surgery despite the tragic outcome.
The premier’s latest remarks have once again placed her at the centre of national debate, with many South Africans sharing differing opinions on leadership, relationships and accountability in public office.
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