The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has condemned President Donald Trump’s withdrawal of United States (US) funding from the World Health Organisation (WHO), saying it is wrong to make such a move in the midst of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Trump accused the WHO of mismanaging and covering up the spread of the virus after it emerged in China.
President @realDonaldTrump is halting funding of the World Health Organization while a review is conducted to assess WHO’s role in mismanaging the Coronavirus outbreak. pic.twitter.com/jTrEf4WWj0
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) April 14, 2020
EFF National Spokesperson, Vuyani Pambo, says this decision highlights Trump’s deep disdain for human life. He says the actions are not only a direct attack on the health of other nations, but a threat to the livelihood of US citizens.
The EFF has called on Trump to reconsider his decision.
EFF Statement on Donald Trump Withdrawing Funding for WHO. pic.twitter.com/mJ0wZ3Z4ry
— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) April 16, 2020
WHO regrets Trump’s decision to suspend funding
On Wednesday, WHO Director-General, Tedros Ghebreyesus said they regret the decision by Trump to suspend funding for the organisation.
Ghebreyesus says the WHO is making plans to fill any financial gaps that may result from Trump’s decision. “We regret the decision of the president of the US to order a halt in funding to the WHO. WHO is reviewing the impact of our work on any withdrawal of US funding and will work with our partners to fill any financial gaps we face and to ensure our work continues uninterrupted. Our commitment to public health, science and to serving all the people of the world without fear or favour remains absolute.”
World Health Organisation briefed the media on Wednesday:
INFOGRAPHIC: Confirmed coronavirus cases around the world:
