Violators of Covid SOPs will not be jailed but fined heavily - says Museveni
President Yoweri Museveni has said going forward, violators of Coronavirus guidelines and directives will not be taken to jail but rather subjected to heavy fines.
Addressing the country on the Covid situation, Museveni said whereas the virus was contained last year, starting March, there has been a surge in cases which he partly blamed to laxity by members of the public in regards the observance of Standard Operating Procedures and directives put in place by government.
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He however wanted government is now going to be stricter in enforcing the guidelines.
“I would like to remind you all that COVID-19 control and prevention is a responsibility of everyone. I therefore urge all Ugandan to adhere to SOPs; wash hands with soap and water frequently, wear face masks, social distancing and avoid mass gatherings,” Museveni said.
“Violation of these measures, will lead to fines that will be given out soon in a statutory instrument signed by the Permanent Secretary."
“Those who don’t care about the health of Ugandans will pay financially. We will not take you to jail. You will dig into your pockets to go to the bank and pay the fine.”
The latest development will greatly help reduce congestion at police stations and later prisons where the violators of the Covid SOPs will be detained.
By allowing them pay fines, government will make some money to help it run some of its business.
