World
Ramaphosa takes sick leave after BRICS Summit
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has stepped back from public engagements after returning from the BRICS summit in India due to ill health.
The Presidency announced on Wednesday that the 73-year-old president returned to South Africa on Monday and was advised by his doctors to rest and recover.
Ramaphosa’s absence comes as Deputy President Paul Mashatile is also recovering from a minor medical procedure.
The development means both of South Africa’s top leaders are currently away from public duties.
The Presidency did not disclose further details about Ramaphosa’s condition.
Leaders of the BRICS bloc, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, concluded a two-day summit in New Delhi on Sunday, where discussions focused on inclusive global growth and the Middle East.
“Where possible, the president has asked the respective ministers to represent him at scheduled engagements,” his office said in a statement.
Mashatile said on Tuesday that his “recovery is 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 season ahead of local government elections on November 4.
AFP

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