As cases and deaths soar, Turkey's president has instructed people to stay home for nearly three weeks and shut down many businesses as part of the country's strictest COVID-19 measures yet.
Follow Israel Hayom on Facebook and Twitter
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan did not announce a stimulus package to offset the economic impact of the new restrictions, which opposition parties decried Tuesday. With Turkey's double digit inflation, sinking national currency and businesses in trouble, many Turks already have been struggling financially.
Erdogan announced Monday that a "full lockdown" would begin Thursday and last until May 17. Residents will be required to stay home except for grocery shopping and other essential needs, while intercity travel only will be allowed with permission. Restaurants are allowed to deliver food.
Opposition lawmakers blasted the government Tuesday. The leader of the main opposition party, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, called on Erdogan to propose a social aid package that would help closed businesses and day laborers in Turkey's informal economies. He also urged the suspension of debt enforcement proceedings for some time.
The government has been distributing tons of onions and potatoes this month with much fanfare. Many see it as a clear example of how much Turks are suffering from rising food prices and poverty. The World Bank, in a report published Tuesday, said Turkey's poverty levels rose from 10.2% in 2019 to 12.2% in 2020.
