GAROWE (Halbeeg News) – Authorities in Puntland state of northeastern Somalia have blamed recent elections for the Covid-19 spike amid the country struggles to stop the spread of the pandemic.
Puntland health minister, Jama Mohamed has pointed out that the ministry has been recording a high number of Covid-19 cases since late last month when the state held local elections in three districts.
“Cases of Covid-19 recorded right after the elections held in Qardho, Eyl and Ufayn districts were highest since the disease was confirmed in Puntland last year,” Jama said. “This was because people were in queues without keeping distance.”
He urged the public to take part in curbing the spread of the disease, saying the individuals should take responsibility for tackling the epidemic.
“The ministry set measures to control the spread of the disease but we need the support of the public by following the guidelines to stop the disease.
The minister also warned of a new increase in Covid-19 infections owing to the expected cold season.
Puntland state authorities however did not disclose any figures regarding the infections.
Residents in Qardho, Eyl and Ufayn, had for the first time in decades cast their ballot in Puntland’s local elections.
There was a total of 54 polling stations open to serve just under 40,000 registered voters in the election saw 87 local councillors for the three districts being elected.
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