Suriname’s President tests for COVID-19 after contact with infected Guyanese Minister

President of Suriname Chandrikapersad Santokhi has tested for COVID-19 after coming in contact with Guyana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Hugh Todd, Surinamese media reported Thursday.

Todd tested positive for the deadly virus on Wednesday and has sent the entire Cabinet into quarantine.

He came into contact with the Surinamese President last weekend when the delegation visited and attended President Irfaan Ali’s inauguration ceremony at the National Cultural Center.

According to Waterkant news in Suriname, the First Lady Melissa Santokhi and the Foreign Minister Albert Ramdin were also tested; they are awaiting their results.

They both met with Todd and Ramdin hosted a joint press conference with Todd at State House on Sunday last.

The government of Suriname reported: “As a precaution, there has already been contact with the medical service. The test procedure has already started. Pending the results, the necessary protocols are still being followed. It is also good to know that the physical health of all three is excellent. They do not show any symptoms of contamination. ”

According to the Surinamese Government, President Santokhi and his delegation adhered to COVID-19 rules during and after their visit to Guyana.

Todd’s positive results forced President Ali, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony, Attorney General Anil Nandlall and other Ministers to get tested.

Their results are pending.