TheAubrey MasangoShow

Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa's ex-wife Hope Ramaphosa has denied claims that her former husband was abusive.

On Monday night, EFF leader Julius Malema made allegations that Ramaphosa assaulted his wife during an interview.

Malema was responding to claims by ANC Women’s League leader Bathabile Dlamini that there are other male ANC leaders who have done worse than Mduduzi Manana, who is facing assault charges.

Hope Ramaphosa says the comments made by Malema are an attempt to tarnish her ex-husband's reputation, because he stand to be the potential President of South Africa and ANC.

Hope maintains that Ramaphosa never laid a hand on her during their relationship.

She says she was shocked by Malema's comments and his ability to spread false rumors.

People can use anything to mess up someone else's reputation, especially during this time in the political arena.

— Hope Ramaphosa

I suppose they feel it's time to throw dirty tricks around.

— Hope Ramaphosa

I was married to Cyril, I knew him for a very long time before we got married. He is not a violent person.

— Hope Ramaphosa

Cyril would not beat up a woman, he is very sensitive to women's issues. He's gentle, kind and soft-hearted.

— Hope Ramaphosa

Never, ever did Cyril ever lifted a finger at me to hit me. He never abused me with words either.

— Hope Ramaphosa

I believe in that man.

— Hope Ramaphosa

She defended Ramaphosa's character and shared very personal accounts of their relationship and marriage.

Take a listen:

This article first appeared on CapeTalk : Hope Ramaphosa: Cyril never lifted a finger to me, he wouldn't beat a woman