Military to enforce lockdown

MEMBERS of the Namibian Defence Force will be deployed to ensure that the public adheres to the regulations of the lockdown.

The national coordinating committee chairperson for the Covid-19 outbreak in Namibia, Bernhard Haufiku, said the military will also ensure that no violence breaks out during the 21-day lockdown period that starts today at midnight.

During the meeting with civil society organisations and church leaders in Windhoek today, several points regarding the Covid-19 outbreak, as well as the consequent lockdown, were raised.

Worries of violence breaking out between the military and civilians, especially the youth, were raised. In response to this, Haufiku said the military is aware of the distrust the general public has towards them.

However, he reminded everyone that during a state of emergency, the military is tasked with taking over.

“Human rights (freedom of movement) have been put aside for now. We need to understand this,” he said.

Another matter in question was the sale of alcohol during the lockdown, as there are concerns that it might lead to reckless behaviour and a squandering of funds in some households.

Questions were also raised about the likelihood that money that needs to be spent on food might be spent on alcohol instead.

Haufiku encouraged everyone to make exercising, yoga or meditation a priority during this time. He also placed emphasis on the mental health of citizens, especially key medical personnel.

He added that anxiety and depression can occur during the lockdown period, especially for those already in quarantine who are separated from their families.

Haufiku cautioned that a vaccine might not be available in the next six months. At the moment, patients can only receive supportive treatment.

Meanwhile, newly appointed minister of justice, Yvonne Dausab, at a press conference at State House this afternoon said the military will not necessarily take over, but will assist in ensuring that the public adheres to the directives of the lockdown. The government also said anyone violating the regulations of the lockdown will get a N$5 000 fine or face arrest. Finance minister Ipumbu Shiimi at the same press conference also said no alcohol will be sold during the lockdown.

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