Deputy President Paul Mashatile is recovering well at home after undergoing a minor surgical procedure, his office has confirmed.
The Office of the Deputy President issued the update in response to weekend media reports concerning Mashatile’s health and his prolonged absence from some public engagements.
“The Office reiterates the position communicated previously: the Deputy President became unwell while at home in Johannesburg and, under the supervision of his medical team, sought medical attention,” said Mashatile’s acting spokesperson, Keith Khoza.
Mashatile was admitted for a minor surgical procedure and observation before being discharged. He is now continuing his recovery at home under medical supervision.
“He was admitted for a minor surgical procedure and observation, was subsequently discharged, and has continued to receive appropriate medical care and rest,” Khoza said.
Mashatile last made a public appearance on 18 July during a government function in Babanango, KwaZulu-Natal.
Despite his absence from some in-person engagements, the Deputy President has continued to perform his official responsibilities remotely.
Khoza said Mashatile had joined Parliament and participated in other important meetings related to his work through virtual platforms.
“The Deputy President joined Parliament and has been participating in other crucial meetings related to his work on virtual platforms,” Khoza said.
Office urges public to ignore speculation
Mashatile’s office said his programme and official responsibilities were being managed appropriately while he recovers.
Khoza also stressed that the Deputy President’s medical privacy would be respected and that the office would not respond to speculation or unverified reports about his condition.
“The Office respects the Deputy President’s right to medical privacy and will therefore not comment on speculative or unverified claims,” he said.
The public and media were urged to rely on information released through official channels rather than anonymous sources or unverified reports.
“We urge members of the public and media to rely on information issued through official channels rather than speculation or anonymous sources,” Khoza said.
The Deputy President has expressed appreciation for the messages of support and well wishes he has received during his recovery.
His office said Mashatile looks forward to resuming his full programme of official engagements once his medical team advises that he is ready to do so.
