Ntsebeng Motsoeli

THE Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has suspended operations pending the outcome of test results for one of its staffers suspected of having contracted Coronavirus (Covid-19).

According to an IEC statement issued on Thursday, “the services have been suspended indefinitely pending the Covid-19 test results”.

“In line with the National Covid-19 Secretariat (NACOSEC) guidelines and protocols, the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) wishes to inform all stakeholders, voters and the public that the IEC has COVID-19 suspect.

“As a result, the IEC headquarters in Maseru and the IEC’s Maseru District office will temporarily suspend services and remain closed while waiting for the confirmation of the test results.

“The affected offices staff will be undergoing self-quarantine while waiting for confirmation of the results. In the meantime, the staff is advised to be alert and comply with the WHO guidelines and Ministry of Health regulations for minimising the spread of the novel coronavirus.

“This is taken as a precautionary measure to avoid the spread of the pandemic. The IEC assures its stakeholders of their commitment and professional service despite the setback,” the IEC said.

Several institutions including the police and some hospitals and clinics have suspended operations after some of their staffers tested positive for Covid-19.

Lesotho has 419 Covid-19 cases to date. It has also recorded nine deaths. (See story on page 6).