President Ramaphosa Denounces "Exaggerated" Health Rumors Amidst ANC Celebrations

Amid the celebratory ambiance marking the African National Congress' (ANC) monumental 112th birthday in Mpumalanga, President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed and put to rest swirling rumors about his health. The South African head of state affirmed his wellness in response to claims circulating on social media suggesting that he had been hospitalized in the Military Hospital, Pretoria.

The controversy began when a social media account, allegedly linked to Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), posted a message implying President Ramaphosa had collapsed and been admitted to an Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The post read, "Cyril was clearly not well before he collapsed earlier this morning," casting uncertainty over the President's health. However, the authenticity of this account was quickly questioned, and it was declared fake by the party.

In a swift countering action, Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya took to social media to reasssure the nation about President Ramaphosa's health. He denounced the rumor as malicious and unfounded, emphasizing, "The President is fine, he was never hospitalized, and there was no emergency."

During his speech at the wreath-laying ceremony at the Louwville Cemetery, part of the ANC's birthday events, President Ramaphosa directly addressed the speculations head-on. He recounted his activities, offering a transparent look into his engagements and schedule. According to him, after attending a meeting, he worked from his residence, taking necessary precautions to prepare for the demands of the coming days. He humorously assured the audience that he stood before them in good health, joking that the person they were seeing was neither a "fake Ramaphosa" nor a "double."

The ANC's birthday festivities where President Ramaphosa is at the helm are not just a political formality but a commemoration of the long-standing history and achievements of the party in South Africa. The events on Monday included the President, alongside other National Executive Committee members, paying homage to their political ancestors through wreath-layings, as well as a luncheon with the families of struggle stalwarts at the Mbombela Stadium, thereby connecting the past with the present in a celebration of continued struggle and advancement.

In an era where misinformation can spread rapidly, it becomes crucial for public figures and their spokespersons to quickly address and correct falsehoods, especially regarding sensitive matters like health. The incident showcases the robust response mechanisms in place to maintain public trust and ensure the accurate dissemination of information concerning national leaders.

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