Dr Cyril Fayose argues most churches have religiously adhered to COVID-19 protocols during their services
- “When we did the lockdown the last time, we were given some prior notice so we could prepare for it, this one even though it is not a full lock down, to say that weddings should not be celebrated all of a sudden is a bit problematic.”
The Christian Council has expressed reservations about government’s directive to ban weddings in an attempt to control the recent upsurge in COVID-19 cases across the country.
Speaking to Nana Yaa Mensah on The Asaase Breakfast Show on Tuesday (2 February), general secretary of the Christian Council Rev Dr Cyril Fayose noted their members will still comply with the presidential fiat.
“My initial personal reaction is that I think it is in place with the surge and new variants of the COVID-19 that we increase restrictions, and we must all work with government to ensure that,” he said.
He added: “When we did the lockdown the last time, we were given some prior notice so we could prepare for it. This one, even though it is not a full lockdown, to say that weddings should not be celebrated all of a sudden is a bit problematic.”
Easy target
Rev Dr Fayose stated it seems the church has become an easy target for imposing restrictions in attempt to enforce coronavirus protocols.
“I think the restrictions were on public gathering generally, but in most cases, it looks like the church is an easy target for enforcing these restrictions. But I don’t think the church is one of the sources of the spike in infection,” he pointed out.
Dr Fayose stressed that most churches have religiously adhered to COVID-19 protocols during their services.
“In fact, the church has been one of the most disciplined organisations as far as observation of the restrictions is concerned. So I will take an issue with someone who says it is the church,” he added.
However, the religious leader promised government they will enforce the new restrictions going forward.
Ban on weddings
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Sunday (31 January) announced a ban on funerals, weddings, concerts and parties until further notice in a bid to control the recent upsurge in COVID-19 cases.
Delivering his 23rd update on measures taken against spread of coronavirus on national television, the President said beaches, night clubs, cinemas, and pubs continue to be shut.
“So, fellow Ghanaians, until further notice, funerals, weddings, concerts, theatrical performances, and parties are banned. Private burials, with no more than twenty-five (25) people, can take place, with the enforcement of the social distancing, hygiene and mask wearing protocols,” President Akufo-Addo said.
He added: “Beaches, night clubs, cinemas, and pubs continue to be shut. Our borders by land and sea remain closed.”
The President further directed employers in the public and private sector to introduce flexible working hours for workers to help contain the spread of the viral disease.
“All workplaces, public and private, must employ a shift-system for workers, in addition to the use of virtual platforms for business or work. Conferences and workshops can take place with all the appropriate protocols. However, I encourage the use of virtual platforms for such engagements.”
He further said restaurants should provide take-away services, and should, as much as possible, avoid seated services.
Source: asaaseradio
