Gambiaj.com – (Johannesburg, South Africa) – South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile are both temporarily away from their official duties while recovering from health-related issues, the Presidency and Mashatile’s office have announced.
Ramaphosa, 73, returned to South Africa on Monday after attending the BRICS leaders’ summit in India. His medical team subsequently advised him to rest and recover, the Presidency said on Wednesday.
The Presidency said Ramaphosa had been booked off from public engagements but did not indicate how long he would remain away from his official program.
“Where possible, the President has asked the respective Ministers to represent him at scheduled public engagements,” the Presidency said.
Mashatile Recovering From Medical Procedure
Mashatile, meanwhile, said on Tuesday that he had recently undergone a minor medical procedure and was continuing to recover.
He said his recovery was progressing well and that he was regaining strength each day. On the advice of his doctors, he would continue resting until cleared to resume his duties.
“Work and delegated responsibilities continue to be undertaken by the capable team in my office, together with other stakeholders in government, business, and other sectors,” Mashatile said.
The deputy president has been dealing with health issues for some time, although his office has not indicated when he is expected to return to his full official program.
Mashatile thanked his family, medical team, colleagues in government, and the African National Congress, as well as South Africans who had sent messages of support.
“Your prayers and encouragement have been a source of strength,” he said.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to his responsibilities and said he looked forward to returning to work fully.
Lamola to Lead UN Delegation
Ramaphosa’s absence comes as South Africa prepares for this year’s United Nations General Assembly.
According to the South African Broadcasting Corporation, Foreign Affairs Minister Ronald Lamola will lead South Africa’s delegation to the UN General Assembly in Ramaphosa’s absence.
The simultaneous absence of the president and deputy president means that key government responsibilities and public engagements are being handled by ministers and officials while both leaders recover.
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