Tebogo Thobejane Blasts President Ramaphosa for “Empty Promises” After Surviving Assassination Attempt
South African actress Tebogo Thobejane has unleashed a scathing critique of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent speech, accusing him of offering hollow promises while victims of violence continue to suffer in silence.
Thobejane’s outrage comes as she grapples with her own trauma and an ongoing court case stemming from a violent attempt on her life.
Survivor of an Assassination Attempt
According to The Sunday World, in October 2023, Thobejane narrowly escaped death when her vehicle was ambushed and sprayed with bullets on the N1 highway near Sandton. The attack left her injured and tragically paralysed her friend.
Authorities allege that the hit was orchestrated by her former lover, controversial tenderpreneur Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.
Matlala was arrested in May on charges of attempted murder and conspiracy. He remains behind bars with his co-accused, Musa Kekana (35) and Tiego Floyd Mabusela (47), at the Kgosi Mampuru C-Max prison in Tshwane.
Matlala’s wife, Tsakani Matlala, is out on R20,000 bail.
The group also faces charges of fraud and money laundering. Their case is expected to return to the Johannesburg High Court on 26 August for further proceedings.
Also Read: “They Tried to Kill Me”: Tebogo Thobejane Fights to Keep Her Assassination Plotters Behind Bars
“Say Our Names. Protect Us.”
In a series of emotional social media posts, Thobejane challenged President Ramaphosa’s pledges to improve safety and continue police operations.
“What was actually said for the victims?” she asked pointedly, questioning the absence of concrete action.
As a survivor battling PTSD and ongoing fear, she condemned the president’s words as disconnected from reality.
“Don’t speak in circles when lives are at stake. Say our names. Protect us. Or stop pretending you care,” she urged.
Her frustration only deepened in follow-up remarks:
“We are not okay. We are still bleeding while the system keeps handing out microphones to those who failed us.”
Living in Fear but Refusing to Stay Silent
Despite the trauma, Thobejane’s determination has not wavered.
“We are still here. We are still speaking. Even if you won’t say our names. We will,” she declared.
She contrasted her vulnerability with the security enjoyed by politicians:
“They are protected by bodyguards and blue lights, while we walk the streets with no safety. No peace. Nothing.”
Amid her ongoing court battles and personal struggles, Thobejane has pleaded for privacy but remains committed to advocacy.
She recently launched the Bothlale Foundation, an organisation dedicated to fighting abuse and gender-based violence in South Africa.