The Presidency says the president has been advised to rest and recover, while ministers will represent him at scheduled engagements where possible.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has temporarily withdrawn from public engagements after returning from the BRICS Leaders’ Summit in India.
The Presidency announced on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, that Ramaphosa had been advised by his medical team to rest and recover due to ill health.
The statement did not disclose the nature or severity of his health condition or specify when he would resume public engagements.
“Where possible, the President has asked the respective Ministers to represent him at scheduled public engagements,” the Presidency said.
Ramaphosa Returns From BRICS Summit
Ramaphosa returned to South Africa on Monday after attending the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi, India, held from September 12 to 13.
During the summit, he participated in discussions on global governance, multilateralism and inclusive economic growth.
Official records show that the president delivered statements during the summit, including remarks on strengthening multilateral cooperation and promoting development across the Global South.
Ministers to Represent President
The Presidency said ministers would represent Ramaphosa at scheduled engagements where possible during his recovery.
The announcement focused on his public schedule and did not indicate that he had transferred his presidential powers.
No additional medical details were provided in the official statement.
Deputy President Mashatile Also Recovering
Ramaphosa’s temporary withdrawal comes as Deputy President Paul Mashatile continues recovering from a minor medical procedure.
Mashatile previously said that his recovery was progressing and that he would continue resting on medical advice.
However, the official statements available do not provide details about any changes to South Africa’s constitutional executive arrangements.
Official Updates Awaited
The Presidency has not announced a specific date for Ramaphosa’s return to public engagements.
Further information about his health and official schedule is expected to come from the Presidency when appropriate.
The official announcement confirms that Ramaphosa has been advised to rest and recover, but does not establish the nature of his illness.
