President Cyril Ramaphosa has been booked off from public engagements due to ill health, while Deputy President Paul Mashatile continues recovering after a recent medical procedure.

The Presidency confirmed on Wednesday that Ramaphosa's medical team advised him to rest and recover after he returned from the BRICS Summit in India on Monday.

The Presidency did not disclose further details about Ramaphosa’s condition.

Ministers to represent Ramaphosa

According to the official statement, Ramaphosa has asked relevant ministers to represent him at scheduled public engagements where possible while he recovers.

The Mail & Guardian reported that Ramaphosa’s absence comes while Mashatile is also recovering from ill health.

Mashatile has been away from parts of his normal public programme after becoming unwell at his Johannesburg home earlier this year.

Mashatile recovering after procedure

The Presidency said Mashatile underwent a minor surgical procedure and was subsequently discharged. His office said on 30 August that he was recovering well, remained in contact with his team and had participated in Parliament and other meetings virtually.

In a message issued on Tuesday, Mashatile said his recovery was progressing well and that he was regaining strength each day.

He added that he would continue resting on the advice of his doctors while delegated responsibilities were handled by his office and other government stakeholders.

No return date announced

Mashatile said he remained committed to his responsibilities and looked forward to returning to his duties in full.

The Presidency has not announced a firm date for either Ramaphosa’s return to normal public engagements or Mashatile’s full programme.

For now, government work is continuing through ministers, the Deputy President’s office and other delegated officials while both leaders follow medical advice.