(MENAFN- Swissinfo)
Getting ready for Swiss National Day, August 1. © Keystone / Urs Flueeler
Switzerland could soon have another national holiday, to celebrate its democracy. The House of Representatives has accepted a motion in favour of celebrating September 12 – against the advice of the government.
This content was published on May 4, 2023 May 4, 2023 Keystone-SDA/ts Parliamentarian Heinz Siegenthaler said he had introduced the motion for the new holiday, which was approved on Thursday by 94 votes to 82, because he wanted to commemorate the achievements of the state born on September 12, 1848, such as direct democracy, the rule of law, the separation of powers and federalism. That date was the adoption of the first federal constitution .
“The inauguration of the first federal constitution is a unique and, in the history of our country, unprecedented event,” he said, adding that it was therefore important that this day be celebrated on a regular basis and on an official occasion.
The government, however, was opposed to the inclusion of September 12 as an additional national holiday. Justice Minister Elisabeth Baume-Schneider noted that Switzerland has only one national holiday, August 1, which she said is well established and appreciated by the population.
MENAFN04052023000210011054ID1106181795
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.