BY DELISA THWALA
MBABANE – Acting Minister of Home Affairs, Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe has reminded emaSwati that voting is the cornerstone of democracy.
He said this when he officially declared Friday, September 29, 2023, as a national elections holiday in the Kingdom of Eswatini.
Chief Ndwandwe emphasised the significance of voting as a fundamental right and the cornerstone of democracy.
“Recognizing that work and other commitments can sometimes pose challenges to finding time to vote, the government took this step to provide citizens with a dedicated day to exercise their civic duty without the pressures of daily responsibilities,” said Ndwandwe.
He further said the impact of this national election holiday is expected to be substantial.
It will enable the employed population to visit their designated polling stations and cast their votes without the constraints of their work schedules.
Simultaneously, it will afford the unemployed citizens the same opportunity, ensuring that no eligible voter is excluded or disadvantaged due to their employment status.
Chief Ndlaluhlaza called upon all eligible citizens to make use of this holiday and actively participate in the electoral process.
By doing so, they can contribute to shaping the future of Eswatini and have their voices heard in matters that affect the nation’s governance and direction.
The declaration of Friday, September 29, 2023, as a national elections holiday signifies the government’s commitment to fostering a fair and inclusive electoral system.
It demonstrates their dedication to ensuring that every eligible citizen can exercise their democratic rights freely and without hindrance.
With the declaration of the national elections holiday, Eswatini takes a significant step forward in promoting democratic participation and strengthening the democratic fabric of the nation.
It serves as a reminder that every vote counts and that citizens’ active engagement is vital in shaping the future of the country.
Ndwandwe said this decision aims to ensure that both the employed and unemployed electorate have sufficient time to exercise their right to vote, thereby promoting a smooth and efficient electoral process.
The declaration of this national elections holiday underscores the government’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and ensuring that every eligible citizen has the opportunity to participate fully in the electoral process.
By granting a holiday on the election day, the government aims to eliminate any barriers that may prevent individuals from casting their votes, regardless of their employment status.
