Measures must be sought before curfew is implemented – City Mayor reiterates
─ Council currently in consultation with stakeholders
DPI, Guyana, Wednesday, April 1, 2020
Mayor of Georgetown His Worship Pandit Ubraj Narine has reiterated that with Georgetown being the capital city and the main economic hub of the nation, several measures need to be sought before the implementation of a lockdown or curfew.
Mayor Narine reaffirmed his stand in a Facebook post on Wednesday; noting that he is receiving “tremendous criticism” since he revealed on March 30 that he does not have the authority to “lockdown” the city and place it under curfew.
The City Mayor repeated that the Council must seek advice and guidance before such a decision is made; while noting that the municipality is currently in consultation regarding this matter.
His Worship Mayor of Georgetown Ubraj Narine
“I have assessed the situation and I think it is prudent to consult with the Ministry of Public Health, the Ministry of Communities, the Ministry of Public Security, the Private Sector Commission and the Georgetown Chambers of Commerce and Industry before making a decision,” Mayor Narine stated.
“We can all agree that limiting the movement of persons is necessary to slow the spread of COVID-19. It is with this in mind that the Council must take the necessary precautions to enforce a lockdown/curfew and to enforce penalties, where measures implemented are breached,” he added.
The Mayor noted that any “uninformed or ill-informed measure” taken by him to place the capital city into such mode can result in anxiety and psychological distress for the citizens.
“We can defeat this virus by working together and adhering to the plethora of Government advisories to fight the spread of this invisible enemy (COVID-19). Blaming each other will only serve to undermine our efforts,” he underscored.
Mayor Narine said he will continue to work towards the safety of the capital city and in the best interest of all its residents and by extension all Guyanese.