South Sudanese Presidential Press Secretary Ateny Wek Ateny has cagily confirmed that he has tested positive for COVID-19.

Mr Ateny confirmed the news on his Facebook page on Tuesday, February 11, that he was self-isolating in accordance with the health protocols.

‘‘I have tested positive to COVID-19-having adhered to mandatory test carried out by Dr John Garang Infectious Disease Unit on orders from the office of the president,’’

But Ateny raised eyebrows with his statement which appeared to doubt the credibility of the result.

He preceded, ‘‘However, if the testing unit was right then thank God and kedit Atenydior that I have no symptoms of such infection. But I must continue on self-isolation until when it is right to go about my normal duties.

Meanwhile, I can continue to communicate with anybody willing to talk to me via electronic means.’’

Yesterday, the country confirmed 156 new COVID-19 cases with two additional fresh deaths.

The figures pushed the country’s caseload to 4,960 and the total number of recoveries goes to 3,729.

The cumulative death toll now stands to 71. The statement by the COVID Incident Manager of the Ministry of Health Richard Lako also revealed that the country has now tested 95,225 people since the outbreak of the disease last year.