@News24 published an article yesterday, 18 March 2020, titled-Information Squeeze: Covid-19 scientists, experts in SA silenced as government centralises communication. We have received numerous questions from concerned members of the public regarding the content of the article.
The @nicd_sa wishes to set a clear record that it has no authority or jurisdiction to advise/direct scientists, epidemiologists and others in the private and public sector not to comment on the COVID-19 situation in SA.
Furthermore, the institute did not request that #COVID19 media queries be directed only to NICD. As an organisation we respect freedom of expression and engagement around public health issues in particular #COVID19SouthAfrica
