Fiji to impose nationwide curfew to curb COVID-19 spread

SUVA - Fiji announced on Friday a nationwide curfew from next Monday night as part of its efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19.

Making the announcement in parliament, Fiji's Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama said that the curfew from 10pm to 5am local time every day will be in force as part of the preventative measures over COVID-19.

He explained that the government has decided to impose the curfew because Fijians are not taking seriously the government's advisory on restricted movement.

"We are not afraid to ramp up these containment measures if we feel the Fijian public isn't taking this crisis seriously. When it comes to the types of activities and behaviours we've discouraged to stop the spread of Coronavirus like non-essential travel, close contact and large gatherings, too many Fijians think that when the sun goes down the rule stops. That's why today, I'm announcing a nationwide curfew from 10pm to 5am every night, everywhere in Fiji, " he said.

There is far too much physical socializing and unnecessary travel between 10pm and 5am, he said, adding that if people are out during these hours, unless it's for work or another life-sustaining purpose, the police will direct them straight home.

Currently, there are five confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Fiji. To curb the spread of the virus, Fiji has taken stricter measures including the lockdown of Lautoka, the second largest city of Fiji and the establishment of more than 20 fever clinics to screen people for possible COVID-19.

From Thursday, Fiji has shut down the Nadi International Airport and passenger travel to the outer islands will cease from Sunday.

In addition, the Fijian government also announced Thursday night a supplementary budget to help fight the virus.