Botswana President-elect declares public holiday for his inauguration

Botswana has announced a special public holiday to celebrate the inauguration of its new President, Advocate Duma Gideon Boko. Government spokesperson Montlenyane Baaitse confirmed that the holiday will begin with a half-day on Thursday, November 7, followed by a full-day paid holiday on Friday, November 8.

"The public is informed that the President of the Republic of Botswana, Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, has officially declared Friday the 8th of November 2024 as a paid public holiday," Baaitse said in a statement on Tuesday, November 5. The holiday is intended to allow Batswana to attend the inauguration of Botswana's 6th president and to celebrate this historic moment.

Thursday's half-day aims to facilitate safe travel for long-distance travelers heading to Gaborone for the inauguration ceremony, with Baaitse encouraging citizens to plan their journeys in advance to join in "this significant occasion in our nation's history."

This special public holiday reflects the government's commitment to fostering national unity and honoring the significance of a new leadership era. The festivities are expected to draw large crowds to Gaborone as the nation ushers in President Duma Gideon Boko's term.