Basma bint Saud, 56, is one of the daughters of King Saud, who fathered more than 100 children. For months she has been held in the Al-Ha'ir prison. In her appeal, she tells King Salman and MbS that she is being held arbitrarily and without charges. In the past, she fought for freedom and rights, and criticised the war in Yemen.
About 24 Chinese doctors will go to Ethiopia and Burkina Faso. So far, the continent has had fewer deaths than more developed regions of the world; however, the healthcare systems in many African countries are woefully inadequate and could facilitate an outbreak. The continent has less than one hospital bed per thousand people. The European Union and the United States are providing aid. The economy is a source of concern.
The Philippine president is ready to crack down on those who do not respect the lockdown and self-isolation. In the past few days there was an upsurge of cars on the road. Many people without social benefits have been forced to go out to work. Philippine bishop calls on the government to provide assistance to people and the unemployed.
During the holy month of fasting and prayer, the faithful will not be able to access the Noble Sanctuary. The council governing Muslim holy places calls on the faithful to "pray at home". Archbishop Marcuzzo notes that Christians, Jews and Muslims "united and determined" in the fight against the novel coronavirus. The emergency has highlighted of the role “of the family and of the domestic Church”.
The Diocese of Shanghai has decided to cancel all pilgrimages in May, including the feast day of Mary help of Christians (24 May). The decision was agreed with the local authorities to prevent gatherings of people that might cause the return of the virus. Small groups or individual pilgrims will not be accepted. Believers are urged to pray to Our Lady at home for an end the pandemic.
Many who continue to work are not paid. The country is the second largest textile manufacturer in the world; the sector employs 4 million people. Without orders from abroad, the factory owners fire or do not pay the staff. Unions and Catholic Church: protect workers.
