Election Day is a National Holiday

In order to facilitate the ability for people to vote in the general elections set for 9 April 2009 the President has issued Decree No. 7 of 2009 which stipulates that 9 April 2009 is a National Holiday.

Nevertheless, it remains to be seen whether this will inspire people to get out to vote or whether people will just enjoy another day off from work. Many commentators are still predicting that there is going to be a sizable number of enrolled voters who exercise their democratic right not to vote.

The single provision of the Decree allows the General Election Commission to nominate a day other than 9 April 2009 for the National Holiday if it is so required.

The Decree was issued on 27 March 2009 and came into immediate force.