After the recent BRICS summit in New Delhi, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has withdrawn from public engagements due to illness, while serious rumours are also circulating regarding Chinese President Xi Jinping allegedly suffering from a severe illness.
The South African Presidency confirmed in a brief statement on Wednesday that President Cyril Ramaphosa is unwell and will not attend any public event until further notice.
The president, who returned home on Monday after attending the BRICS summit held in India, has been advised by his medical team to take complete rest and focus on his recovery.
According to the Presidency, it has not been clarified how long the president will remain on leave, nor has any official announcement been made regarding the appointment of an acting president.
The presidential statement also said that, where possible, the president has instructed the relevant ministers to represent him at scheduled public engagements.
Vice President’s Continued Absence and Government Challenges
The announcement of President Ramaphosa’s illness comes at a time when South African Vice President Paul Mashatile has already been unwell for several weeks. After undergoing a minor medical procedure, he is currently recovering at home.
In a statement issued this week, Mashatile informed the public that his health is improving rapidly and that he is gaining strength with each passing day.
He said, “On the advice of doctors, I will continue to rest until I receive further instructions.”
He clarified that, in his absence, the capable team in his office is carrying out the assigned responsibilities in cooperation with the government, business community and stakeholders from other sectors.
The Vice President thanked his family, medical team, office staff, government and ANC colleagues, as well as President Ramaphosa and all those citizens who had expressed their good wishes for him. He said, “Your prayers and encouragement have remained a source of strength for me.”
Worrying Claims Regarding Chinese President
The situation became even more mysterious when serious speculation emerged on social media regarding the health of leaders who attended the BRICS summit, particularly Chinese President Xi Jinping.
In a recent post by Wanjun Xi, chairman of the China Democracy Party, the sensational claim was made that Chinese President Xi Jinping had fainted during the BRICS summit.
According to the claim, he allegedly suffered a stroke, after which he was immediately sent back to Beijing for medical treatment. Although these reports could not be independently verified by reliable sources, they have caused a wave of concern internationally.
The expanded BRICS summit of BRICS countries was held in New Delhi on September 12 and 13, with important leaders and representatives from around the world attending.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and other important global figures were present at the summit. However, reports of several world leaders falling ill together immediately after the summit have sparked unusual discussions in diplomatic circles.
The situation regarding the health of the heads of two important countries immediately after a high-level global forum appears to be more than just a coincidence.
In the South African context, the illness of both the president and vice president at the same time could create a serious administrative vacuum for the country, particularly at a time when the state is facing major economic and political challenges.
On the other hand, if the rumours circulating about the Chinese president have even a little basis in reality, their effects would directly impact global markets and geopolitics.
During the summit in New Delhi, a possible viral infection or unusual environmental pressure may have affected the health of the leaders.
However, until the relevant governments present medical reports with complete transparency, uncertainty and speculation will continue to prevail globally.