The Malawi Government is becoming a joke by the day. The new COVID-19 measures would be laughable If COVID-19 were not serious. Instead of providing Free Masks to Malawians the government is threatening fines for those that do not wear Masks because they cannot afford.to buy them.
This is seriously a government in training.
Some of the COVID19 preventing regulations that the Minister of Health has gazetted effective 7 August 2020
(a) Traffic Police Officers are prohibited from touching the driver’s licence or any other traffic documents but are encouraged just to look.
(b) All drinking joints will open only from 2PM to 8PM and will sell take away beers ONLY. Imbibing at the bars is not allowed.
(c) All markets, shops, and business that ply their trade close to hospitals have to be closed. Those that provide essential services will be allowed.
(d) Shop owners should not allow buyers to enter their shops without a mask. Such shops will be liable to a fine if they allow such.
(e) Wearing of masks in all public places is mandatory. Those found without a mask will be liable to a K10,000 fine
(f) All public gatherings like weddings, parties, bridal showers, etc. are not allowed. Law enforcement officers have been given permission to use reasonable force to enforce compliance
Many Social Media pontificators now strongly suggest to government that, before slapping people with the fines, the government must provide free masks to the nation.
They say Other governments in the world have and are providing packages to its citizens during this COVID-19 free water bill, free electricity for the rural communities and half to those who use a certain percentage, free medical care, free online classes, no charges on mobile money to minimize cash handling, meal allowances, etc.
They also recommend the Government undertake massive civic education to Malawians.
