As Pakistan gears up for the upcoming general elections on February 8, 2024, speculation is rife about the possibility of a nationwide holiday coinciding with this crucial event. The anticipation for a day off on February 8 is grounded in a tradition established during the 2018 General Election when the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) declared July 25th as a public holiday.
The primary objective of such holidays is to facilitate voters, ensuring they can exercise their right to vote conveniently and participate in the democratic process. Reflecting on the 2018 precedent, where the ECP officially declared a public holiday on July 12, providing the public with 13 days’ notice before the elections, a similar announcement for February 8 could be expected around January 26 this year.
Empowered by Article 218 of the Constitution, the Election Commission of Pakistan holds the authority to declare public holidays on election days. If February 8 is indeed proclaimed as a public holiday, it will mark a significant moment for Pakistanis, as it coincides with Kashmir Day falling on a Monday. This fortuitous alignment would grant the citizens of Pakistan the luxury of enjoying two public holidays within the same week.
In a nod to past practices, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) is also expected to follow suit by declaring a holiday on the day of polling, ensuring that the financial sector aligns with the national sentiment and facilitates the electoral process.
As the nation awaits the official announcement from the Election Commission of Pakistan, the potential for a public holiday on February 8 adds an extra layer of excitement to the upcoming general elections, turning the spotlight on the intersection of civic duty and collective celebration.
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