Homa Bay County Government temporarily suspended its operations yesterday over increased coronavirus infections.

Governor Cyprian Awiti announced that county offices will remain shut for two weeks to give room for fumigation.

“We are closing down operations of the county government for two weeks from today (Tuesday).

The closure will pave way for fumigation and other routine measures for preventing spread of coronavirus,” Awiti said.

The decision follows the demise of County Communications Director and veteran journalist Maurice Juma Aluoch, who died of symptoms similar to those of Covid-19 on Monday evening.

Awiti expressed concern over rising cases among county staff. Already, six Executive staff have tested positive.

He urged residents to strictly adhere to health protocols, while laying emphasis on social distance, putting on masks at all times and hand-washing as key measures, which should be observed by everyone.

“Let our people religiously observe the heath protocols laid down by the government to help us keep this virus at bay,” he said.

Deputy Governor Hamilton Orata noted that the viral disease was already in the community and urged residents to take personal responsibility in preventing its spread.

Honest professional

“Coronavirus is real and it is here with us. Let our people be cautious wherever they are,” Orata said.

Meanwhile, Governor Awiti led other leaders from Nyanza in eulogising the late Aluoch.

Awiti described the deceased as a dedicated and honest professional who executed his responsibilities with zeal and verve. “I knew Aluoch long before I became a governor.

He was working for Kenya Times newspaper then. I was attracted by his honesty and competence,” said Awiti.

The governor described Aluoch as a journalist who had interpersonal skills.

“He knew how to interact with his colleagues, an attribute that enabled him achieve a number of objects both as a practicing journalist and when he was in my office,” Awiti said.

Former Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero and former Karachuonyo MP James Rege also eulogised Aluoch.

Rege described the deceased as a competent journalist who undertook his duties effectively.