President declares November 12 holiday, creating long Republic Day weekend

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has declared Thursday, November 12, a public holiday, creating a long weekend around next week's Republic Day holiday.

In a statement, the President's Office said the decision was made as Wednesday, November 11, Republic Day, is already an official public holiday, while Thursday falls immediately before the weekend.

The government said the move was intended to provide uninterrupted leave for public sector employees, allowing them an extended break following the national holiday.

With the declaration, government offices will remain closed on November 11 and 12 before reopening on Sunday, November 15.

The decision grants government employees four consecutive days away from official duties, spanning Republic Day, the newly declared holiday, and the weekend.