Coronavirus cases in Kenya jump to 15, Kagwe says Kilifi DG to be charged

The number of coronavirus cases in Kenya have jumped to 15, Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mutahi Kagwe said on Sunday.

Among the eight new coronavirus cases, five are Kenyan nationals, two are French citizens and one Mexican national.

"Behaving normal under these conditions is like having a death wish," said Mr. Kagwe.

The CS announced the suspension of all international passenger flights except cargo flights.

"Countries wishing to evacuate their nationals must make arrangements within this time period," said Mr. Kagwe.

The Health CS said that all persons who violate the self-quarantine regulations will be forcibly quarantined at their own cost and thereafter arrested and charged.

Churches also came under fire from Mr. Kagwe for continuing with their operations on Sunday despite his directive to curtail gatherings.

Mr. Kagwe also suspended burial gatherings, except for close family members, warning that if Kenyans do not change their behaviour the country may experience the same tragedy as Italy.

"If you are found with an open church, no gathering in mosques and shrines. All bars will remain closed from tonight," said Interior Principal Secretary Karanja Kibicho.

The Inspector-General of Police Hillary Mutyambai ordered police to start by midnight the enforcement of directive to close all bars.

Mr. Mutyambai said that Administration Police will enforce directive suspending church activities, disco matangas and funerals.

"Those who will defy the self-quarantine directive will be arrested after their forced quarantine and charged," said Mr. Mutyambai.

Isiolo County Governor Mohamed Kuti, speaking on behalf of county governments, said that the message to Kenyans is "stay at home."

"All governors should communicate to their electorate to stay home, avoid unnecessary movement," said Mr. Kuti.

The number of coronavirus infections worldwide has risen to 318, 811 with 96,006 recoveries as at Sunday.

So far, Covid-19 has killed 13,676 people globally with Italy the most-hit with over 4,000 deaths.