South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has withdrawn from public engagements on medical advice after falling ill following his return from the BRICS Summit in New Delhi, India.
The Presidency announced on Wednesday, the 16th of September 2026, that Ramaphosa touched down in South Africa on Monday, the 14th of September, and was subsequently advised by his medical team to rest and recover. He has been booked off from public engagements until he has fully recovered, with no details given on the nature of his illness or the expected duration of his absence.
In a statement, Presidency spokesman Vincent Magwenya said: “The President returned from the BRICS Summit and was not feeling well. His medical team has advised him to rest, and he has been booked off from public engagements until he has fully recovered.” Where possible, Ramaphosa has asked relevant cabinet ministers to represent him at scheduled events.
The Presidency stressed that Ramaphosa remains fully in charge of government operations and has not designated an acting president during this period. He is expected to continue receiving briefings and making key decisions while focusing on his recovery.
The president’s absence comes as Deputy President Paul Mashatile continues to recover from a minor medical procedure, meaning both of South Africa’s top leaders are currently away from public duties. International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola will lead South Africa’s delegation to the United Nations General Assembly in New York in Ramaphosa’s stead.
The announcement drew mixed reactions on social media, with some South Africans expressing concern and others questioning the timing and transparency of the disclosure. Critics pointed to recent controversies around presidential travel and spending, while supporters urged respect for the president’s privacy and right to medical leave.
For now, the government’s message is that business continues as usual, with cabinet ministers covering public engagements while Ramaphosa recuperates.
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