The nighttime curfew in Egypt is expected to be extended during the month of Ramadan, which starts next week, cabinet spokesman Nader Saad said in TV comments on Thursday. The step comes in an attempt to stem the spread of the coronavirus pandemic, he added. The country has been under a curfew since 25 March. Initially from 7pm to 6am, it currently runs from 8pm to 6am. Ramadan is expected to begin this year on 24 April. The Islamic holy month is normally a time of evening social and religious gatherings, following a fast-breaking meal at sunset. The government has closed down mosques due to the crisis, one of a number of measures that included suspending schools and universities. Saad added that all cafes, cinemas, theatres will remain closed during the month noting that Ramdan's tents in all venues, where people gather to eat the daily Iftar or sohour meals will be suspended. The cabinet spokesman noted that the committee responsible for managing the coronavirus crisis will determine the curfew hours for this month at a later date. Saad said that the government has taken several measures to contain the spread of the virus and “won't allow” any setbacks.
