Akufo-Addo extends ban on public gatherings by two weeks

President Akufo-Addo has extended the initial one-month ban on public and social gatherings by an additional two weeks.

This comes after he signed the Executive Instrument (EI) to give effect to the new directive.

In a series of tweets on Sunday, April 12 explaining the legalities around the EI, the Ministry of Information said; “President Akufo-Addo has signed the Executive Instrument (EI) extending the duration of the restrictions imposed under EI 64 and EI 65.

“The restrictions imposed on public gatherings, under EI 64, have been extended for a further period of two (2) weeks, with effect from Monday, 13th April, 2020.”

“As announced already, the restrictions imposed on movement of persons in Accra, Tema, Kumasi and Kasoa, under EI 65, have been extended for a further period of one week with effect from Monday.”

“All other provisions, including all exemptions in EI 64 and EI 65, are still in full force and effect,” the Ministry of Information said.

Background

President Akufo-Addo on March 15, 2020, in a television broadcast, declared the ban on all public gatherings including conferences, workshops, funerals, festivals, political rallies, church activities and other related events as part of measures to stop the spread of coronavirus in the country.

At the time, Ghana had recorded six cases of COVID-19.

The President in that broadcast gave a caveat that private burials were permitted however mourners present must not exceed 25.

“Private burials are permitted, but with limited numbers, not exceeding twenty-five (25) in attendance,” President Akufo-Addo said.