Spokesperson of Health Emergency Operation Centre (HEOC) Dr. Nazla Rafeeq has stated there is no right more important than health and safety during this State of Public Health Emergency.
Speaking with regards to the political rallies held amid the health crisis, Dr. Nazla said it is disappointing to see the guidelines of Health Protection Agency (HPA) being violated in such rallies. Noting COVID-19 affects all ages of people alike, Dr. Nazla said lack of compliance to the health and safety guidelines set amid the COVID-19 pandemic shows a lack of responsibility. She said no right should take precedence over health and safety during this health emergency.
Following the protests held by opposition parties on August 28, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih also expressed disappointment over conducting such protests amid a health crisis. Noting crowds of more than 5 have been prohibited by HPA, the president urged the public to follow the instructions of health authorities in order to control the spread of COVID-19.
The spread of COVID-19 has accelerated rapidly over the past month, with the daily average of cases currently soaring above 100. HEOC has warned a second lockdown may be needed to contain the spread of the disease.