ANC first deputy secretary-general Nomvula Mokonyane has described being a female leader in politics as "a struggle within a struggle". Seen as one of the ANC's strong women, Mokonyane took part in the struggle against apartheid from the age of 15. "Investment in empowering women has, in some instances, left the boy child behind. Responding to Ramathuba's remarks, Mokonyane said for her, the issue was about the exploitation of a relationship, irrespective of age or gender. Any relationship, irrespective of age, that takes advantage of the other person is not the right one."