Ramaphosa booked off sick after India trip

President Cyril Ramaphosa has been booked off sick and will not participate in public engagements until further notice, the Presidency said on Wednesday.

“The Presidency wishes to advise that, due to ill health, President Cyril Ramaphosa is currently booked off from public engagements. President Ramaphosa, who returned from the BRICS Summit in India on Monday, has been advised by his medical team to rest and recover,” the Presidency said in a short statement.

It is not clear how long Ramaphosa will be off sick or whether he will appoint an acting president, as this was not clarified in the statement.

The Presidency said that, where possible, “the president has asked the respective ministers to represent him at scheduled public engagements”.

Ramaphosa’s announcement comes as Deputy President Paul Mashatile continues to recover at home after being off work for several weeks due to ill health and undergoing a minor medical procedure.

Mashatile said in a statement this week that he was recovering well and gaining 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,” he said.

Mashatile thanked his family, medical team, office staff, government and ANC colleagues, as well as Ramaphosa and South Africans who had sent messages of support.

“Your prayers and encouragement have been a source of strength,” he said.

Mashatile also called on South Africans to continue working together for the progress of the country and said he remained dedicated to his responsibilities.

He said he looked forward to returning to his duties “with renewed energy and commitment”.