Libya’s United Nations-backed government on Wednesday announced the imposition of a four-day total lockdown in the capital Tripoli in an attempt to contain the spread of the coronavirus.
A statement from the Government of National Accord said that a curfew, from 9pm-6pm, will take effect for 10 days after the lockdown ends. However, authorities will enforce a full curfew on Fridays and Saturdays.
In addition to the above measures, mass gatherings and all religious and national festivals will remain suspended during the four-day lockdown period.
Moreover, all markets will remain closed during that period while observance of social distancing will be mandatory together with adherence to other COVID-19 health regulations.
Libya’s health system has been decimated by years of civil war and a volatile economy and has been further strained by the coronavirus pandemic.
The UN previously said that conflict and the COVID-19 pandemic present a “significant threat” to life in Libya.
On Wednesday, Libya’s National Center for Disease Control said it had recorded 553 positive cases, in what is so far the highest single daily increase. The Center also reported seven more deaths and 40 additional recoveries.
In total, Libya has registered 11,834, including 210 deaths and 1,152 recoveries.
