While some South Africans might have their reservations about President Cyril Ramaphosa, particularly because of his handling of corruption and the COVID-19 pandemic, it still didn’t discourage them from sending messages, wishing him a speedy recovery. Ramaphosa has reportedly fallen ill, which puts him out of action during a critical time for the country.
He had been scheduled to meet with the National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union (Nehawu) on Monday, 21 September 2020, to discuss some of their demands.
Nehawu members in the healthcare sector are demanding adequate provision of personal protective equipment (PPE) and salary increases, among other things, as they remain at the forefront of the battle against the coronavirus.
However the Minister in the Presidency Jackson Mthembu said the talks would have to be postponed as Ramaphosa was not feeling well.
“The only person who can deal with these issues properly and listen to what Nehawu has to say is our president and he is available on Wednesday because today he is really sick – he is in blankets as I speak,” Mthembu said to the media at Union Buildings in Pretoria.
“As you saw me, I spoke to the President and he spoke to the president of Nehawu. An arrangement has now been made for the President to meet with the leadership of Nehawu, this week. I am told that Wednesday is being negotiated.”
Ndlozi: ‘President Cyril Ramaphosa get well soon’
Mthembu said the president had arranged to meet with the union again on Wednesday, 23 September 2020.
Social media users were quick to react to compassionately the news.
“I’m no fan of President Ramaphosa politically but wish him a speedy & full recovery from his illness. May he be back to work soon,” said someone on Twitter.
Even the Economic Freedom Fighters’ (EFF) Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, one of his fiercest critics, extended well wishes to the President.
“President Cyril Ramaphosa get well soon. On a serious note!,” Ndlozi tweeted.
Unfortunately, others were not so kind with their words towards the president.
“I understand why Cyril Ramaphosa needs bed rest. All those lies must weigh heavy”, said one tweet.
Another said:
“Ramaphosa must be the first one to take the vaccine especially that he’s not feeling well”
Read the original article on The South African
