Opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), said on Wednesday that it will write to the Office of the Deputy Speaker, Lechesa Tsenoli, to request a report on the whereabouts of Deputy President David Mabuza.

Mabuza travelled to Russia last month to receive medical attention. The DA is also requesting that the report reflect the cost of Mabuza’a stay in Russia and whether the taxpayer is footing the bill.

DA Shadow Minister for the Presidency Solly Malatsi says in a statement that the report must be urgently tabled and presented to Parliament, with an opportunity for MPs to ask questions.

The Deputy President is responsible for issues related to State power utility Eskom and the vaccine programme, in addition to his usual duties.

Malatsi accused Mabuza of being “missing in action”.  

The DA has questioned whether Mabuza’s various positions were being filled by anyone.

“While the Deputy President is entitled to his privacy regarding his medical condition, it is in the public interest to establish the impact of his continued absence from his official duties,”  the DA said.

The party called Mabuza’s trip to Russia “suspicious”, as there have been no updates on his health or his expected return.