South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has temporarily withdrawn from public engagements after returning from the BRICS summit in India. His office said the president is resting on medical advice.
Ramaphosa returned to South Africa on Monday after attending the two-day BRICS summit in New Delhi.
The presidency said his doctors advised him to rest and recover before resuming his official schedule.
Presidency Confirms Ramaphosa’s Absence
In a statement on Wednesday, the presidency said Ramaphosa had asked ministers to represent him at some scheduled engagements where necessary.
“Where possible, the president has asked the respective ministers to represent him at scheduled engagements,” his office said.
The presidency did not provide further details about the nature of Ramaphosa’s illness.
Mashatile Also Recovering
Ramaphosa’s absence comes as Deputy President Paul Mashatile continues his recovery from a minor medical procedure.
Mashatile said on Tuesday that his recovery was progressing well.
He added that he was regaining strength each day and would continue to rest until his doctors advised him to resume normal duties.
Meanwhile, work and delegated responsibilities are continuing through his office and other government stakeholders.
BRICS Summit
Ramaphosa attended the BRICS summit in New Delhi, where leaders discussed global economic growth and other international issues.
The summit included discussions on inclusive global growth and the situation in the Middle East.
The BRICS group includes Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.
Busy Political Period
The simultaneous absence of South Africa’s president and deputy president comes at a politically active period for the country.
South Africa is preparing for local government elections scheduled for November 4.
For now, both leaders are away from public engagements while their respective offices continue with government responsibilities.
