Coronavirus outbreak: Independence Day programme at National Memorial cancelled

The government has decided to cancel all Independence Day programmes at the National Marty's Memorial in Savar and the reception programme at Bangabhaban amid fears over the coronavirus.

The decision was taken at a meeting between President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina this afternoon at Bangabhaban, President's Press Secretary Mohammad Joynal Abedin told The Daily Star.

Besides, the Swadhinata Padak (Independence Award) giving ceremony has also been postponed, he said, adding that the decisions were taken in public interest.

The president and prime minister also discussed the overall situation regarding the coronavirus outbreak in the country and urged citizens to remain calm and not panic, he quoted them as saying. 

Earlier, Hasina called on the president at Bangabhaban around 5:00pm.