The Cost of Silence: Africa Abandons South Africa

South Africa is being left to fend for itself in the face of verbal attacks from the US President, with no public defense from other African leaders. This is particularly striking when compared to the solidarity shown by EU Presidents in defending Ukraine's leader, Zelensky, after he was attacked.

The lack of support for Cyril Ramaphosa, who was ambushed at the White House four months ago and verbally attacked this week, raises concerns about the effectiveness of African unity. The situation is reminiscent of the treatment of Gaddaffi, where no one spoke up in his defense.

The SADC and AU must take a stronger stance in defending their leaders and promoting regional solidarity. As it stands, the absence of public support for Ramaphosa is a worrying sign for African unity and the continent's ability to present a united front against external threats