South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has temporarily withdrawn from public engagements after returning from the BRICS summit in India, with the presidency citing health concerns.
Ramaphosa, 73, returned to South Africa on Monday following the two-day BRICS summit in New Delhi and was advised by his doctors to rest and recover, according to a statement from the presidency.
The president’s absence comes as Deputy President Paul Mashatile is also recovering from a minor medical procedure, leaving the country’s two highest-ranking officials away from public engagements at the same time.
The BRICS summit, which brought together leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, concluded on Sunday. Discussions at the meeting focused on issues including inclusive global economic growth and developments in the Middle East.
The South African presidency said Ramaphosa had asked ministers to represent him at scheduled engagements where necessary.
“Where possible, the president has asked the respective ministers to represent him at scheduled engagements,” the presidency said.
Meanwhile, Mashatile said his recovery was progressing well following his medical procedure.
He said he was regaining strength daily and would continue resting on the advice of his doctors until he was cleared to resume his normal duties.
“On the advice of my doctors, I will continue resting until advised otherwise,” Mashatile said, adding that work and delegated responsibilities would continue through his office and other government stakeholders.
The simultaneous absence of Ramaphosa and Mashatile comes as South Africa approaches a busy political period ahead of the local government elections scheduled for November 4.
Government responsibilities are expected to continue through ministers and other officials while both leaders recover.
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