South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has been temporarily booked off from public engagements after falling ill following his return from the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, India.
The Presidency confirmed the development on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, saying Ramaphosa’s medical team had advised him to rest and recover.
According to the Presidency, Ramaphosa returned to South Africa on Monday after attending the BRICS summit, which was held in New Delhi from September 12 to 13.
The Presidency did not disclose the nature or severity of the illness, nor did it state how long the president is expected to remain away from public engagements.
Where possible, Ramaphosa has asked relevant cabinet ministers to represent him at scheduled public engagements during his recovery, according to the official statement.
Ramaphosa participated in several activities during the BRICS summit, including discussions on inclusive global growth, multilateralism and economic cooperation. He also took part in the India-South Africa Business Leadership Roundtable.
The Presidency has provided no further information on his condition at this stage.
