Elderly persons have been discouraged from attending Church services when Churches reopen come 6th and 7th June, 2020. So have all persons with underlying health conditions such as; heart diseases, diabetes, liver diseases and asthma.
This, among several other advisories were announced by the Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs Minister, Samuel Kofi Dzamesi, at a media encounter on Monday evening, June 1, 2020, following the easing of restrictions for religious and other social activities to take place.
Among the warnings enumerated by the Minsiter are; Thermometer guns or thermal scanners must be provided for checking the temperature of congregants at entry points; Handwashing facilities with running water and soap and/or FDA approved alcohol-based hand sanitizers are to be provided; A no-handshake, no-hugging and no-spitting policy must be ensured at all times; A COVID-19 taskforce comprising of members who are preferably health workers must be formed.
The Minister was emphatic that the law will deal with all violators of the protocols.
“The state security services shall ensure enforcement of these protocols. There’ll be random enforcement checks to ensure compliance. The church or mosque or other religious bodies that violate the laid down protocols would be dealt with appropriately. The church/mosque or other religious organisations in violation could be closed down, and their leaders would be held liable.”
Meanwhile all religious bodies are expected to register with the Registrar General’s Department, while their worship premises also register with the appropriate Municipal/Metropolitan or District Assemblies.
Suraya Alidu Malititi
