‘Don’t lift ban on public gathering’ – Ghana Medical Association advises Akufo-Addo
The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has cautioned the government against lifting restrictions on public gatherings following a spike in coronavirus cases.
The country registered these figures less than two months after the first cases were recorded on March 12.
“His Excellency the President of the Republic should not lift the ban on social gatherings for religious activities, schools, marriage ceremonies, funerals etc.” a statement jointly signed by GMA President, Dr Frank Ankobea and GMA General Secretary, Dr Justice Yankon, stated on May 9.
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Furthermore, the Ghana Medical Association wants the country’s borders to remain closed without movement of passengers by sea, land or air.
“Our international borders should also remain closed for now,” the statement added.
President Akufo-Addo imposed a three-week partial lockdown in some parts of the country, but this was reversed on April 19. However, restrictions on public gatherings and border closures were extended to curtail the spread of the contagion.
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Businesses were allowed to operate and markets opened under strict adherence to COVID-19 protocols but a section of the public, especially religious leaders, are advocating the same courtesy to permit church services and other meetings.
With Muslims observing Ramadan, there is also the tendency of gathering in Mosques to observe congregational prayers, which the President has discouraged.
The GMA holds a strong belief that the country has, however, not reached the stage where large gatherings should be permitted.
Below is the full statement: