Limpopo Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba has issued a striking warning to women in leadership positions, urging them to steer clear of what she called “Ben 10s”—a colloquial term for significantly younger romantic partners who, she argued, can become a dangerous distraction from the weighty responsibilities of public office.
The premier made the remarks during a heartfelt handover ceremony in Lulekani, near Phalaborwa, where she fulfilled a solemn promise by presenting a brand-new three-bedroom home to Nokuthula Sithole. Sithole’s story had touched the nation when her conjoined twins underwent a high-risk separation surgery at Mankweng Tertiary Hospital—a procedure that sadly resulted in the loss of one twin due to sepsis. The home, which represents a tangible gesture of government support for the grieving mother, was meant to offer some solace and stability after her arduous journey.
Addressing a crowd that included community members, local leaders, and media, Ramathuba pivoted from the ceremony to deliver a pointed message about the challenges facing women in power. Drawing on her own experience as a nurse-turned-ANC leader—she has served as premier since 2024—she warned that the allure of younger romantic partners, often referred to in South African slang as “Ben 10s,” could derail focus, compromise judgment, and tarnish hard-won reputations. Her warning was delivered in a striking multilingual blend of English, Tshivenda, Xitsonga, and Sepedi, ensuring it resonated across the province’s diverse linguistic landscape.
The premier’s comments quickly sparked a national conversation, drawing agreement from prominent figures such as media personality Redi Tlhabi, who echoed the sentiment that women in leadership face unique pressures that require vigilance. However, the remarks also generated mixed reactions, with some critics questioning whether the premier’s focus on personal relationships overshadowed more pressing governance issues, while others defended her candor as a necessary reality check for women navigating both public and private life. As the debate continues online, Ramathuba’s warning has firmly placed the spotlight on the complex intersections of gender, power, and personal choices in South Africa’s political landscape.
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