Deputy President Paul Mashatile experienced a health scare on Saturday when he suddenly collapsed during a public appearance. He was swiftly taken to the hospital for medical attention after the incident, which occurred while he was delivering a keynote address.
Incident During N’wamitwa Day Celebrations
During the N’wamitwa Day Celebrations at Valoyi Cultural Village in the Greater Tzaneen region of Limpopo’s Mopani District, Mashatile unexpectedly fainted while on stage. He had been speaking in his role as chairperson of the Presidential Task Team and addressing issues concerning Traditional and Khoisan leaders.
Acting spokesperson for Mashatile, Keith Khoza, released a statement shortly after the incident, assuring the public that the deputy president had been evaluated by his medical team and was recovering well. “The Deputy President became lightheaded due to the heat and was promptly attended to by his medical team,” Khoza confirmed. “We are pleased to report that he is now in good health.”
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Heat Exhaustion Suspected as Cause
Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba also provided an update, stating there was no cause for alarm. According to Ramathuba, Mashatile’s collapse may have been due to heat exhaustion, but she refrained from offering further details about where he was taken for treatment.
A report from SABC News revealed that security personnel and emergency responders acted quickly to remove the Deputy President from the stage and ensure his immediate transportation to receive medical care.
Mashatile’s Current Condition
Despite the scare, both government officials and Mashatile’s team have reassured the public that the Deputy President is recovering well. “There is no need for concern,” Ramathuba emphasized, adding that such incidents are not uncommon in extreme heat conditions.
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The event continued, although there was palpable concern among attendees following the Deputy President’s sudden collapse. Mashatile had been expected to deliver a comprehensive address focused on traditional leadership in South Africa, a topic of great significance in his role as chair of the Presidential Task Team.
Public Response and Next Steps
The Deputy President’s team has requested privacy during his recovery, though further updates are expected to follow. Many have expressed relief that the incident was handled swiftly, preventing any major complications. Meanwhile, the public has shown an outpouring of support, wishing Mashatile a speedy recovery.