The hashtag #RamaphosaMustGo has gained traction on social media as South Africans express dissatisfaction with President Cyril Ramaphosa. The discontent follows his announcement of a simplified five-year visa process for Nigerian nationals.
The policy, unveiled during the 11th Session of the South Africa-Nigeria Bi-National Commission in Cape Town on 3 December, aims to foster economic growth and tourism by easing entry for Nigerian businesspeople. Qualified applicants will receive a five-year multiple-entry visa without the need to present a passport during the application process.
President Ramaphosa stated, “Our efforts to create a favourable environment include introducing a simplified visa process for Nigerian business people,” highlighting it as part of broader reforms to modernise visa application systems globally.
Despite these intentions, the announcement has sparked outrage. Critics accuse the government of prioritising foreign relations over pressing domestic issues. Social media users, under the trending hashtag #RamaphosaMustGo, have called for the president’s resignation. An open letter and widespread online criticism further underscore public frustration.
The policy arrives at a time of strained relations between Nigerians and South Africans, with social media often amplifying tensions. Many South Africans worry the move could exacerbate existing socio-economic issues, particularly unemployment and overstretched public resources.
The presidency has defended the initiative as part of a broader strategy to strengthen bilateral ties and boost economic cooperation between South Africa and Nigeria, insisting it will ultimately benefit the nation’s economy.
