South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has temporarily withdrawn from public engagements after returning from the BRICS summit in India, with the presidency citing ill health.

Ramaphosa, 73, returned to South Africa on Monday following the two-day BRICS summit in New Delhi and has been advised by his doctors to rest and recover, his office said on Wednesday.

The development means both of South Africa’s top political leaders are currently away from public duties, as Deputy President Paul Mashatile continues his recovery from a minor medical procedure.

The BRICS summit, which brought together leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, concluded on Sunday after discussions on inclusive global growth and developments in the Middle East.

According to a statement from the presidency, Ramaphosa has asked ministers to represent him at scheduled engagements where necessary.

“Where possible, the president has asked the respective ministers to represent him at scheduled engagements,” the presidency said.

Meanwhile, Mashatile said on Tuesday that his recovery was progressing well and that he was regaining strength daily.

“On the advice of my doctors, I will continue resting until advised otherwise while work and delegated responsibilities continue to be underway in the capable team in my office with other stakeholders in government, business and other sectors,” he said.

The simultaneous absence of Ramaphosa and Mashatile comes as South Africa enters a politically active period ahead of the local government elections scheduled for November 4.