Presidency Says Paul Mashatile Is Recovering Well After Minor Surgery
The Deputy President has been absent from public engagements since mid-July, but the Presidency says he remains involved in official work while recovering.
The Presidency says Deputy President Paul Mashatile is recovering well after undergoing a minor surgical procedure, amid speculation about his health following his absence from public engagements.
Mashatile became unwell at his home in Johannesburg and subsequently sought medical attention, according to the Presidency.
Although he remains in recovery, the Presidency said he has continued participating in parliamentary proceedings remotely through virtual platforms and remains informed about other important matters.
It said it respects Mashatile’s right to medical privacy and would therefore not respond to speculation concerning the nature of his condition.
Mashatile Continues Duties Remotely
Mashatile last attended a public engagement on Mandela Day in KwaZulu-Natal, where he launched a water services project.
His spokesperson, Keith Khoza, said Mashatile was grateful for messages of support and intended to resume his official programme once his medical team cleared him to do so.
“The deputy president is recovering well and remains in contact with his office. His programme and official responsibilities continue to be managed appropriately during his recovery.”
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Mashatile also took part remotely in a parliamentary session last week concerning a motion of no confidence in Speaker Thoko Didiza.
His continued participation in parliamentary proceedings indicates that his absence from physical public engagements has not prevented him from carrying out official responsibilities remotely, according to the Presidency.
Presidency Maintains Medical Privacy
The Presidency has provided no further details about Mashatile’s medical condition, citing his right to privacy.
The statement comes as his absence from public view has generated speculation about his health. However, the Presidency has not endorsed those claims and has instead limited its confirmation to his recovery and continued involvement in official work.
Khoza said Mashatile would return to public engagements once he received clearance from his medical team.
Motsoaledi Also On Sick Leave
Mashatile’s absence coincides with Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi being on sick leave from official duty.
Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni has been appointed to act in Motsoaledi’s position until the end of September.
The Presidency’s account of Mashatile’s condition indicates that he remains engaged with his responsibilities while recovering, although the timing of his return to public engagements will depend on medical clearance.
