PM Timothy Harris: We are in a war against COVID-19 and we must win this war

"We are in a war and this war we must win. Together we must be united, with all of us doing our part to ensure our safety"

Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Dr Timothy Harris took it over to social media to address the local public regarding COVID-19. He stated that State of Emergency has been forced to protect every individual of the nation and urged people to obey the proclaimed emergency to contain coronavirus.

“Last Saturday, to additionally protect and keep you safe from the COVID-19 pandemic, His Excellency the Governor General declared the State of Emergency in St. Kitts and Nevis. Following the Emergency Powers Act, my Administration initiated Emergency Powers (COVID-19) Regulations, SR&O No. 7 of 2020," said PM Harris.

During his address, PM Harris emphasised on the necessity of imposed lockdown to slow the human to human transmission of COVID-19 pandemic. Along with that, reducing secondary infection among close contacts and health care employees.

Prime Minister said that with the help of state of emergency identification, isolation and proper treatment for the patients would be highly efficient and sooner the treatment start, the better it is for the people of St Kitts and Nevis.

"Notwithstanding a clear announcement that all citizens must remain at home besides in certain minimal conditions, the Police High Command has proclaimed that many persons have chosen to violate these regulations. Negligent conduct will not be tolerated. Offenders will be immediately apprehended and charged," he added.

"Breach of the state of emergency will not be tolrated and police will not hesitate to prosecute offenders"

He said that proper conduct and responsible behaviour is essential for our families, communities and, by extension, our beloved Country. This is not a time for reckless behaviour.

PM Harris added that Cabinet of Ministers has ascertained that after discussion with the police, the National COVID-19 Working Group, the Chief Medical Officer and the Medical Chief of Staff of the JNF General Hospital, there be a 24-hour curfew, a total lockdown, from 7:00pm Tuesday 31st March to 6:00am Friday 3rd April in the first instance.

It anticipates that the current regulations will be repealed and new rules made in which no one, except the Security Forces and other Security Personnel, the Health Care Officers, technical emergency officers of services including telecoms, and media personnel, will be allowed out of their homes.