Ramaphosa Withdraws from Public Engagements Due to Illness

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has temporarily withdrawn from public engagements after returning from the BRICS summit in India, with the presidency citing illness.

The 73-year-old president returned to South Africa on Monday and was advised by his doctors to rest and recover, his office said in a statement on Wednesday.

His absence comes as Deputy President Paul Mashatile continues recovering from a minor medical procedure, leaving both of the country's top leaders away from public duties.

Presidency Confirms Ramaphosa's Recovery Period

The presidency said Ramaphosa had been advised to take time to rest following his return from India.

“Where possible, the president has asked the respective ministers to represent him at scheduled engagements,” his office said.

The arrangement allows government activities to continue while the president focuses on his recovery.

The presidency did not provide further details about the nature of Ramaphosa's illness.

Ramaphosa Returns from BRICS Summit

Ramaphosa's withdrawal follows his participation in the BRICS summit in New Delhi, India, which concluded on Sunday after two days of discussions.

The summit brought together leaders of the BRICS bloc, including Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

Discussions focused on inclusive global growth and developments in the Middle East, among other international issues.

Ramaphosa returned to South Africa on Monday before receiving medical advice to rest.

Mashatile Continues Medical Recovery

Meanwhile, Deputy President Paul Mashatile said on Tuesday that his recovery from a minor medical procedure was progressing well.

“My recovery is progressing well,” Mashatile said, adding that he was “regaining strength each day”.

He said he would continue resting on the advice of his doctors until instructed otherwise.

“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 stated.

Mashatile's comments indicated that delegated responsibilities and government work were continuing during his recovery.

Government Faces Busy Political Season

The simultaneous absence of Ramaphosa and Mashatile comes as South Africa enters a busy political period ahead of local government elections scheduled for November 4.

The developments place attention on the continuity of government operations while the president and deputy president recover.

Further updates on Ramaphosa's return to public engagements are expected from the presidency.