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Pressure on Health Minister to quit over breach of COVID rules

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Pressure on Health Minister to quit over breach of COVID rules

Pressure is growing against Mauritius Health Minister Kailesh Jagutpal over claims that he broke government coronavirus restrictions during an end-of-year party.

Mr Jagutpal and his ministry are also currently subject to heavy criticisms over questionable emergency procurement of overpriced drugs.

“In a video clip that has taken social media by storm, the Health Minister is seen dancing in the middle of a tight crowd without mask, while the country is currently subject to strict health guidelines linked to COVID-19,” l’Express newspaper reported.

COVID-19 rules impose face-masks and social distancing with people outside one’s own household.

Pressure on Health Minister to quit over breach of COVID rules
Screenshots of the clip published by l’Express newspaper

Opposition Leader Xavier Duval was cited by Le Mauricien newspaper as denouncing that the Health Minister “had been caught in the act.”

“While thousands of Mauritians have been slapped with fines by the police for lesser offenses, the minister is participating in a Dance Party in blatant breach of COVID Regulations,” Duval said.

Duval said Health ministers in several countries were forced to resign under similar circumstances, adding that Jagutpal’s behaviour “risks undermining the government’s sanitary message”.

Sought for a comment by Defi Media, Minister Jagutpal defended that it was a family Christmas event. “Isn’t it normal during festive period to enjoy with family? What’s wrong?”, he reportedly responded via SMS.

“All Mauritians, except for some reasons, like being sick or bereaved, etc., are having pleasant family times. It was a yearly Christmas gathering. So, we attended to cherish good times,” he was quoted as adding.

Minister Jagutpal said the party was hosted by his wife’s family.

With regards to claims of non-compliance with COVID rules – wearing of face-mask and social distancing – Minister Jagutpal reportedly responded that these restrictions are not applicable when it comes to family members.”

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The information and opinions expressed in our published works are those of authors/sources believed to be reliable. NewsMoris makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information expressed.