Government Communications Permanent Secretary (PS)- Andrew O. Sesinyi has informed the public about the closure of the Office of the President (OP) scheduled for the 25th to the 26th January 2021.
This comes after some workers in the Office of the President were reported to have tested positive for Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) recently. “The closure of the Office of the President is out of abundance of caution following the detection of positive COVID-19 status among some staff members, and the subsequent enhancement of safeguards to prevent possibilities of the spread of the infection.” Sesinyi wrote.
Meanwhile, the reports cleared the speculations that the President and the first lady could be possible contacts on the matter.
It is due to this reason that Sesinyi says the office saw it fit to halt operations temporarily in order to disinfect the building as well as to screen the staff before assumption of duty, in his own words he said “it is imperative to close the office as both a safeguard against disinfectants and the necessary comprehensive screening of stuff before resumption of occupancy in the building. “
During this period, it is said that the staff will be working from home to provide all the services. He however advised the public to remain calm amid this development, “The public is advised to remain calm since the measures being taken are essentially out of precaution and not indicative of any situation of undue cause for harm. The public is further reminded to continue to adhere to the COVID-19 safety protocols that include; wearing of masks, social distancing, washing of hands and where possible, sanitizing.” he reiterated.
However, Sesinyi said that there will be further assessment by the Ministry of Health and Wellness on the 27th of January 2021 before the staff can occupy the building and resume their daily duties.
