The President of the Republic, Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan delivered a live statement to the Press this morning at State House. He first announced the passing away of Mr Vincent Pillay, who was hospitalised at the Isolation and Treatment Centre in Perseverance.

President Ramkalawan described Mr. Pillay as a ‘personal friend’ and presented his sincere condolences as well as support to the Pillay’ family during this difficult moment.  Mr. Pillay aged 57 years old, succumbed to the illness last night. He was a well-known footballer, played for Plaisance during the Regionalisation era and also made extensive contribution in the national team.

As confirmed by the Ministry of Health, Mr Pillay’s death is the first Covid-19 related passing in Seychelles amidst an increase of new COVID-19 cases.  The President extended his support to the staff of the Ministry of Health and everyone who in one way or another is giving a helping hand.

“This should once again make us realise the gravity of the situation that we are in and I do not wish for us to have another decease. This, can only be avoided if each and every one of us take our responsibility and follow all the measures put forward by the Public Health Authority. I wish to inform the citizens of Seychelles that the situation is deteriorating. Last night, we have recorded 16 new COVID-19 cases, among which 3 are foreigners, and 3 cases have been detected on Praslin,” said President Ramkalawan.

The President informed that the necessary contact tracing is being done to identify the source of the three cases on Praslin. He made an appeal to the people living on the island to take all the necessary precautions. 

To conclude, President Ramkalawan underlined the severity of the situation and stressed on the importance of members of the public to adhere to all the safety guidelines and hygiene measures issued by the health authorities, such as good hygiene practices, wearing of masks and social distancing in order to ensure their own safety and that of our communites.

More information on the situation and updated measures will be communicated by the Ministry of Health and the Public Health Authority. 

View full video of President's Statement via the Office of the President Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ict38XZ_OxE

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