Let Us Listen to the Government

Statement by Raila Odinga on Coronavirus from @RailaOdinga

This morning, the Government of Kenya confirmed our country’s first case of the coronavirus. The confirmation and the systematic disclosure of information indicate the existence of a clear plan by the Government to provide our citizens and visitors to our country with timely and accurate information on the evolving situation.

We are pleased with the whole- of- government approach to handling the threat and protecting the health of Kenyans. We further appreciate that the government is leveraging all of our resources to respond to the threat.

As a country, we are in this together and we appeal to our citizens not to panic but instead cooperate with the Government which has factual and science based advice on how we must proceed. A raft of measures has been announced by the Government, including the suspension of inter- school events, prison visits, church crusades and all other public gatherings.

These measures will definitely cause disruptions across our country. But we must adhere to them as the best scientific advice that we can rely on to overcome the danger. I urge all relevant ministries to continue to provide, as soon as they have it, as much clear scientific and medical information as is possible so that our people can be guided by science and not rumors that will cause unnecessary panic.

As we embark on these steps; let us keep reminding ourselves to do the basic things that will make all the difference. In particular, let’s observe basic hygiene. Let’s remember to wash our hands and avoid shaking hands.