“No. We've had enough.”
Tahiti remains in lockdown, like everyone else except the lazze faire Swedes (who now openly regret that decision) and the few random Americans who think scientists who study this couldn’t possibly know what they’re talking about. BTW, these unhinged protests will most likely contribute to a 2nd viral outbreak. Article Here.
Back in Tahiti, we have been in Confinement since the end of March and business owners are obviously shut down and hurting. But it seems like they too are losing their patience, and I totally get their point, as this island has only had 57 cases, zero deaths, and a single person is in the hospital. Here are the data: (hit the browser's translate button to get it into English)
They locked it down early. Enforced it often. And now as a result, they’ve done so good at containing this virus that the number of new cases has slowed and now stopped coming in. Let’s hear it for a coherent public health policy. There’s a lot of expectation in the air because the prior time Confinement was to last until this Wednesday, the 29th of April. But now the “High Commissioner” has said that he will make a big announcement this Monday! We hold our breath.
But it’s been a long time now, and you feel the people getting antsy. Over the past few days, we have seen business owner creak open their doors, cleaning up inside, as if getting ready to reopen. Don't get me wrong, they're wearing masks and distancing, so its not some kind of wild-ass free for all. But you do sense the energy in the air. It’s like some kind of hive mentality where they communicate with each other, and seem to be acting together in some way.
A friend was on the street, having a conversation with the locals. The question was asked about whether they thought the government would allow businesses to reopen.
“Yes, it will reopen.”9
But what if they say the confinement is extended? What if they don’t allow businesses to open? What if they keep everyone locked down longer?
“No. We will reopen. We’ve had enough”.
It feels to me that the people have made a decision themselves and are going to open their shops and force the hand of the government. They seem to be saying, either relax the rules so we can survive or just arrest us.
But here is the point.
By creating — and enforcing — safe conditions for their people early and often, they are now in a position to relax restrictions. And it is widely expected that on Monday, they will re-open businesses in a sane, phased manner. They can do that precisely because they were so decisive early on.
I for one am looking forward to exploring their shops, their trails, and their Polynesian cooking classes!! Can’t wait to share this culture with you all.
