Deputy President David Mabuza ill, stays at home

NOMAHLUBI JORDAAN and TIMESLIVE

Deputy President David Mabuza has advised parliament that he is ill and is unable to address MPs as scheduled this month.

This is according to the National Assembly speaker Thandi Modise and national council of provinces (NCOP) chair Amos Masondo.

The presiding officers said in a statement they had “received an apology” from the deputy president “that he is unable to honour scheduled appearances in both houses due to ill health”.

Mabuza was scheduled to answer oral questions in the NCOP on Thursday, and in the National Assembly next week, on July 30.

“The deputy president has undertaken to avail himself to appear before both houses, on a mutually agreed date, upon his full recovery,” said Modise and

Masondo, who wished him a speedy recovery.

Meanwhile, more MPs have tested positive for Covid-19.

“Parliament’s presiding officers have learnt of more MPs who have tested positive for Covid-19,” parliament said in a statement.

Labour and employment minister Thulas Nxesi, mineral resources and energy minister Gwede Mantashe and MP Zamoxolo Peter have been hospitalised due to Covd-19.

Other MPs who have tested positive for Covid-19 are Simphiwe Mbatha, Collin Malatji and national assembly house chair Cedric Frolick.

Modise and Masondo have expressed messages of support and well wishes to the families of the MPs.

“During this time, human solidarity, empathy and social unity are crucial as key weapons against the coronavirus.

“South Africans are encouraged to remain steadfast in combating the spread of Covid19. This means complying with restrictions, vital hygiene, social distancing protocols and all other guidelines aimed at reducing the spread of Covid-19 infections,” the presiding officers said.

Simphiwe Mbatha, Collin Malatji and Cedric Frolick have tested positive