South African President and Deputy President Withdraw Due to Illness

President Cyril Ramaphosa has withdrawn from all public engagements due to ill health after returning from the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, India. The Presidency of South Africa announced on Wednesday that the 73-year-old leader returned from the summit on Monday and is resting on medical advice.

Ramaphosa's absence coincides with the recovery of Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who is recuperating from a minor medical procedure. To maintain government operations, Ramaphosa has requested that respective ministers represent him at scheduled engagements where possible. Mashatile has delegated his responsibilities to his office and other stakeholders in government and business.

The simultaneous unavailability of South Africa's two highest leaders occurs as the country prepares for local government elections scheduled for November 4.