In a state of suspense, the residents of Sindh, especially Karachi, find themselves on the edge of their seats as December 27 approaches. The focal point of their anticipation lies in the confirmation of whether this significant date, commemorating the death anniversary of Pakistan’s former Prime Minister, Benazir Bhutto, will be declared a public holiday this year.
As of the morning of Tuesday, December 26, the Sindh government remains silent, withholding the official notification that will decide the fate of December 27, 2023. The city’s atmosphere is charged with expectation, and the public eagerly awaits the government’s announcement, which will dictate whether tomorrow will be a day of rest or regular business.
The looming decision will have a cascading effect on offices and markets, determining whether they will close their doors or carry on with daily operations. The uncertainty adds to the collective anticipation, creating a buzz throughout the region.
Despite the palpable excitement, the government’s stance is yet to be revealed, leaving the public in suspense. In the absence of an official holiday notification, offices and markets in Sindh will default to their regular routines on Wednesday, December 27.
It’s worth noting that in the previous year, 2022, the Sindh government declared a public holiday on the occasion of the shahadat of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. This encompassed all offices, autonomous and semi-autonomous bodies, corporations, and local councils under the administrative control of the Government of Sindh. Essential services and those involved in COVID-19 emergency and flood relief duties were excluded from the holiday provisions.
