Mashatile’s collapse: The real story behind the incident
Paul Mashatile’s recent collapse during a public speech has led to speculation, prompting his office to offer clarification on the matter.
The Office of the Deputy President clarified on Sunday that Paul Mashatile collapsed from dehydration due to extreme heat, refuting earlier claims of food poisoning, as reported by Jacaranda FM News.
On Saturday, Mashatile fainted while delivering his keynote address at N’wamitwa Day Celebrations in Tzaneen, Limpopo.
Mashatile’s doctor report rules out poisoning
Mashatile had mentioned food poisoning during a speech at Tshwane University of Technology the day before his collapse. However, his acting spokesperson, Keith Khoza, clarified that the medical examination revealed no signs of poisoning.
“The doctor who examined the deputy president never mentioned food poisoning,” Khoza told Jacaranda FM News, adding, “We found that the reason he collapsed was dehydration as a result of extreme heat.”
Despite Mashatile’s earlier claims, Khoza emphasised that the deputy president is in good health. “He is fine. He was thoroughly checked by the doctor, and he is back to his normal mood,” Khoza stated. Meanwhile, the Presidency expressed gratitude to the team from the Presidential Protection Service and the Presidential Medical Unit for their quick response.
Support from South Africans appreciated
The Office of the Deputy President extended thanks to the South African public for their support during the incident.
“The Deputy President also thanks all South Africans for their support and prayers,” read a statement from the Presidency. Mashatile’s health scare has prompted further conversation about the importance of staying hydrated during public events, especially in extreme weather conditions.
N’waMitwa Day: A celebration of progress
In his prepared speech for the N’wamitwa Day event, Deputy President Mashatile highlighted the significance of the 16th anniversary of the celebration. He praised the occasion as a moment of national unity, particularly in advancing gender equality. “Her Royal Highness Hosi Dr N’waMitwa II’s accession to the throne symbolises resilience and progress in our country’s journey to realise women’s full potential in leadership roles,” Mashatile said.
He further called for the dismantling of patriarchy, noting the critical role of women in shaping South Africa’s future. “We must fight patriarchy and stand together as government and traditional leaders to root out persistent inequalities and Gender-Based Violence (GBV),” Mashatile urged.