Najaf announces public holiday for Mid-Sha’ban

NAJAF — The Najaf Provincial Council announced a public holiday in the governorate for Monday, in celebration of Mid-Sha’ban.

The council issued a statement, which was obtained by 964media, extending congratulations from its President, Dr. Hussein Al-Essawi, and its members to the Islamic community, grand religious authorities, and the people of Iraq on the anniversary of Mid-Sha’ban.

This occasion is revered for marking the birth of Imam Mahdi, the twelfth Imam in Shia Islam, believed to be the ultimate savior of humankind and the final Imam of the Twelve Imams. Imam Mahdi is said to have been born on the 15th of Sha’ban in the year 255 AH (869 AD) and is believed to have been hidden by God at a young age, only to reappear as the Mahdi to bring justice and peace.

In observance of this significant event, the Council has decided to close all state departments in the governorate on Monday, Feb. 26, except for security and service sectors.