The extension, which comes into force from Monday 11th May 2020, will affect all religious gatherings, festivals, funerals among others.
In his ninth national address to update Ghanaians on government’s fight against COVID-19, the President acknowledged that the ban on public gatherings and closure of schools had created a lot of inconveniences but stressed the need to stay focused.
The ban, which was first instituted four weeks ago, was aimed at curtailing the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic after Ghana recorded six cases.
He stated, “Tonight, I have come into your homes, to announce that the ban on public gatherings, as set out in Executive Instrument 34, has been extended, also to the end of the month ie, 31st May.”
“So during this period, there will continue to be a ban on public gatherings such as holding of conferences, workshops, parties, night clubs, drinking spots, festivals, political rallies, religious activities, sporting events.”
“All educational facilities private and public, continue to remain closed.”
“There is still a ban on funerals, other than private burials with not more than 25 persons.”
“It is noteworthy that the police is arresting and prosecution persons irrespective of their status in society who flout these regulations,” he added.
Also: COVID-19: Ghana Laboratory Scientists call for mass testing
The Government first introduced the ban on 15th March 2020 following the outbreak of the Coronavirus in the country as part of measures to stop transmission at the community level.
President Akufo-Addo subsequently also announced a lockdown of Accra, Tema, Kasoa, and Kumasi, which have been identified as the epicenters of the spread of the virus.
The lockdown was, however, lifted after the government admitted the difficulty it was putting Ghanaians through but the ban on public gathering was extended twice.
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By Uthman A. Marani/Frontpageghana.com/Ghana
