South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has withdrawn from public engagements after returning from the BRICS summit in India, with the presidency citing ill health.
Ramaphosa’s absence comes as Deputy President Paul Mashatile continues to recover from a minor medical procedure, leaving both of the country’s top leaders temporarily away from public duties.
The 73-year-old president returned from the BRICS summit in India on Monday and was advised by his doctors to rest and recover, the presidency said in a statement on Wednesday.
Leaders of the BRICS bloc, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, concluded a two-day summit in New Delhi on Sunday, with discussions focusing on inclusive global growth and the situation in the Middle East.
“Where possible, the president has asked the respective ministers to represent him at scheduled engagements,” the presidency said.
Meanwhile, Mashatile said on Tuesday that his recovery was progressing well and that he was regaining strength each day.
“On the advice of my doctors, I will continue resting until advised otherwise while work and delegated responsibilities continue to be underway in the capable team in my office with other stakeholders in government, business and other sectors,” Mashatile said.
The simultaneous absence of Ramaphosa and Mashatile comes as South Africa enters an increasingly busy political period ahead of the local government elections scheduled for November 4.
AFP
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