Japan extends state of emergency for three more weeks till June 20

Japan extends state of emergency for three more weeks till June 20

Tokyo Olympics

Japan has decided to extend the state of emergency in Tokyo and other areas for three more weeks till June 20 according to a statement given by a cabinet minister. The COVID-19 pandemic is showing no signs of slowing down and even as the starting date of the Tokyo Olympics is fast approaching, doubts continue to linger as to whether the organizers would be able to pull off a hassle-free Games.

The state of emergency was originally scheduled to conclude by the end of this month, but according to medical professionals, the virus is still very much at large. There has been a record number of critical cases in recent days even as the total number of positive tests have reduced. Amid warnings that conducting the Olympics could lead to spreading of new variants of the virus, the Japanese government has chosen to remain wary.

Officials remain divided on whether to conduct the Games

Tokyo Olympics protest
A protest taking place against the Tokyo Olympics

Officials have given conflicting opinions on whether the Tokyo Olympic Games must go ahead. Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nisihmura was quoted by Reuters today as saying, “In Osaka and Tokyo, the flow of people is starting to creep up, and there are concerns that infections will rise.” He further broke the news of the extension of the state of emergency for three more weeks till June 20.

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Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is expected to announce the same later today. Meanwhile, other officials such as those directly connected with the organizers have stated that the Games would go ahead with all necessary protocols and precautions. The vice-president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), John Coates stated that the state of emergency even if it is prevalent during in July the Games would not have any influence. The public opinion is overwhelmingly against conducting the Games, but with the organizers remaining confident, we might get to see the Tokyo Games seeing the light of day in July.

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