Ramaphosa steps away from official duties over health issues

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has withdrawn from public engagements on doctors’ advice after returning from the BRICS summit in India, according to Punch Newspapers, citing his office. Ramaphosa, 73, returned Monday and was advised to rest, with ministers asked to represent him at scheduled events where possible.

His absence coincides with Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s continued recovery from a minor medical procedure, leaving South Africa’s two top leaders simultaneously away from public duties. Mashatile said Tuesday his recovery was “progressing well” and that he would continue resting on his doctors’ advice.

The overlapping absences come as South Africa heads into a busy political period ahead of local government elections on November 4.