By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will not lead the South Africa’s delegation to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) after he has been booked off from public engagements due to ill health,
Instead the International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola arrived in the United States to lead the delegation to UNGA81 in the absence of Ramaphosa.
South Africa will use the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to advocate for a stronger, more inclusive multilateral system while continuing to push for reforms that ensure Africa is permanently represented on the United Nations Security Council.
This year’s General Assembly also coincides with the process to elect a new United Nations Secretary-General as the term of António Guterres draws to a close.
According to presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya, Ramaphosa returned from the BRICS Summit in India on Monday and has been advised by his medical team to rest and recover.
Magwenya says that Ramaphosa is following medical advice while focusing on his recovery. Where possible, Cabinet ministers will represent the President at scheduled public events and engagements.
No further details about his condition have been released at this stage.
South Africa will work closely with Bangladesh, which assumes the Presidency of the 81st Session of the UNGA.
Lamola welcomed this year’s theme, “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations that Delivers for All,” saying it reflects the need for a multilateral system that is more effective, responsive and capable of addressing global challenges.
“South Africa will continue advancing these principles in close cooperation with the international community, particularly with Bangladesh, which holds the Presidency of the General Assembly during the 81st session,” Lamola said.
He said the theme speaks directly to rebuilding confidence in multilateral institutions at a time when international cooperation is under increasing strain.