President Ramaphosa Slammed for Tribute to Surtie-Richards

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s tribute to late veteran stage and screen actor, Shaleen Surtie-Richards, received criticism from many South Africans.

The 66-year-old actress was found dead in one of Cape Town’s guest houses on Monday, 7 June, where she had lodged for the filming of KykNet series, Arendsvlei.

On Tuesday, 8 June, the president issued a statement offering his condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the late actress.

Social media users expressed their disappointment with the president – saying that if he had signed the long-awaited Copyright Amendment Bill and Performers’ Protection Amendment Bill – Surtie-Richards could have earned royalties from her work.

One Twitter user said: “@PresidencyZA too late to pay tribute, if you had signed the PPAB& CAP-she would’ve received royalties for her work on rebroadcast and was able to go to a specialist hospital. Her death is in your uncaring hands.”

Another fan wrote: “Mourning? Because you & your Honorable Members did nothing to help when she needed medical care or peaceful retirement. A 40yr career & @ParliamentofRSA still blocked her right to earn #fairroyalties from her work. Tell me again how you’re mourning?
[sic]”.

Western Cape Premier, Alan Winde, has said he is writing to Ramaphosa to request a state funeral.

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