The East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) has passed the East African Community Holidays Bill 2013.
With the passing of the Bill, East Africans are expected to observe the east African Community day on November 30 as a Public Holiday in all Partner States.
If the EAC Heads of State give a nod to the Bill, then the day shall be an opportunity to reflect on the vision of integration and to celebrate the progress made.
According to the EAC secretariat, the official celebrations shall be held in rotational order in the Partner States, celebrating African renaissance and honouring citizens who have championed the cause of integration.
The Bill hopes to provide a legal basis for holidays in the Community and makes provision for remuneration of employees who may be required to work on a holiday and situations where the said holiday falls on a Sunday.
The Bill recognises all the independence days celebrated in the Partner States as days off for the staff of all organs and institutions of the Community. The same applies for the religious holidays currently observed including: Good Friday and Easter Monday as well as the Eidd El-Haj, Eid-Ul-Azha and Eidd-El-Ul.
The International Women’s Day commemorated globally on March 8 shall also be kept and observed by the EAC.
At debate time, the motion was supported by Hon Patricia Hajabakiga, Hon Dora Byamukama, Hon Peter Mathuki and the Chair of the Council of Ministers, Hon Shem Bageine.
The debate was preceded by the tabling of the Report by the Committee on Regional Affairs and Conflict Resolution.
The Committee considered the Bill and incorporated a number of views and proposals for consideration and adoption. The Bill now awaits assent from the EAC Heads of State before it becomes Community law.