Coronavirus: Former Ridge hospital boss wants Independence day parade cancelled
Although Ghana is yet to record a single case of the deadly coronavirus, a former medical director wants Independence Day Celebration cancelled over fears it could trigger the spread of the disease.
Dr Thomas Anaaba, who once headed the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, noted that because the virus spread easily through contact, the large gathering expected at the Baba Yara Sport stadium was a risky ground.
“Let us cancel the independence day celebration because it is a risk for spreading the virus. Such a move will show the Ghanaian people how serious the President is taking this fight. Cancelling the celebration will be a strong message to the people that we’re serious about preventing an outbreak.
“The President should set the right example by taking such measures, he should show more leadership in these matters,” he said in an interview on Starr FM, monitored by theghanareport.com.
The disease has killed more than 3,000 globally since an outbreak was first recorded in China. Several countries in Europe have placed restrictions on movement and public gatherings.
Only six countries in Africa have reported single-digit cases. All 42 suspected cases in Ghana have turned negative after tests were conducted.
But. Dr Anaaba urged caution.
Reacting to the concerns raised by Dr. Anaaba, the Ghana Health Service said the parade on Independence Day could go exactly as scheduled.
According to its Director of Public Health, Dr. Badu Sarkodie, it was “very safe.”
The government has assured its readiness to combat the disease should the country record an outbreak.
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Despite these assurances given by government, the Minority in Parliament disagree. According to the opposition MPs, the country “is not adequately prepared”.
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Ghana turns 63
Ghana will mark its 63rd Independence day celebrations in the Ashanti regional capital, Kumasi, on March 6, 2020.
A statement issued by the regional police PRO, ASP Godwin Ahianyo, said major roads in the city would be blocked to make way for the commemoration.
Major roads in Kumasi to be closed down for 63rd independence day parade
He said the measure was part of security arrangements for the anniversary parade slated for Friday at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.
Giving details of the affected roads, ASP Ahianyo said that the Afful Nkwanta, Asokwa mall traffic lights stadium and the road between the Unity oil station and the T.I Ahmadiya Senior High School.
He added that the road from “It’s My Kitchen Restaurant to Briginia would also be closed to the general motoring public, except for those with accreditation to enter the Heroes Park and the Hockey Pitch.”
Meanwhile, the Command has advised motorists to plan alternative routes before embarking on their journeys, warning that “vehicles parked at unauthorized places and wrongly parked will be towed by the Towing Services, and the owners of such vehicles surcharged”.