Coronavirus: Uhuru Day celebrations in limbo

THIS year’s Independence Day Celebrations are in limbo following the government’s move to ban public gatherings and political demonstrations as a prevention measure against Coronavirus.

Traditionally, the Uhuru Day celebrations are held at National Sports Stadium and presided over by the president.

 Presidential spokesperson George Charamba made the announcement via his official Twitter handle on Monday.

“Coronavirus lockdown: No more political demonstrations/marches/protests!!! MDC-ZCTU muriko hereeeee!” his tweet read.

The final decision will however be announced on Tuesday after cabinet meeting.

The development follows precedence set in different parts of the world where public gatherings have been banned.

Major sporting events have been cancelled.

Last week, Algerian health ministry confirmed the country’s first death from the coronavirus, Zimbabwe football stakeholders reiterated their call for the Warriors’ impending African Cup of Nations’ qualifier against Algeria in Bilda to be relocated or shelved.

The total number of confirmed cases in the North African country has climbed to 24, prompting Algerian President Abdel-Majid Tebboun to order an immediate suspension of schools and universities to curb the outbreak.

According to a statement by the Algerian presidency, the primary, middle and secondary schools will remain closed until April 5.

Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) say they have written to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) requesting a postponement or relocation of the March 26 encounter.

Meanwhile,MDC president Nelson Chamisa is expected to visit Wilkins Hospital on Monday afternoon, to assess the Coronavirus situation on the ground.