“I, as President, swear to uphold the Constitution and laws of the Republic, to guarantee the protection of citizens' rights, freedoms, honor, and dignity, to safeguard the territorial integrity, political, economic, and cultural independence of Tajikistan, and to serve the people faithfully”.

Emomali Rahmon

Every year on November 16, Tajikistan observes a significant national holiday: the Day of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan. While not a public day off, it is a key date in the nation's calendar, marked by official events, cultural activities, and reflections on the country's post-independence journey.

The holiday is intrinsically linked to the current and long-serving head of state, Emomali Rahmon, who also holds the official title of "Founder of Peace and National Unity – Leader of the Nation."

History and Establishment

The "Day of the President" was officially established on April 15, 2016. On this day, members of Tajikistan's lower house of parliament, the Majlisi Namoyandagon, unanimously approved amendments to the country's law "On Holidays," formally adding November 16 to the list of national celebrations.

The date was not chosen at random. It holds deep historical significance, marking the anniversary of November 16, 1994, the day Emomali Rahmon was officially sworn in for his first term as President. This inauguration followed the adoption of the country's new constitution on November 6, 1994, which formally established a presidential form of government in the wake of a devastating civil war.

Significance of the Day

The holiday is positioned as a celebration of the institution of the presidency and its role in shaping modern Tajikistan. Its primary purposes are:

Honoring Peace and Unity: The day serves as an official tribute to President Rahmon's role in ending the Tajik civil war (1992-1997) and fostering national reconciliation.

Symbol of Statehood: Much like Independence Day or National Flag Day, President's Day is intended to reinforce national identity and celebrate the country's political structure and stability.

Reviewing National Progress: It is a time for state media and institutions to reflect on the nation's achievements in economic development, social reforms, and foreign policy under the president's leadership.

How President's Day is Celebrated

The day is observed nationwide with a variety of events, though public and working life continues as normal. Celebrations typically include:

Educational Programs: Universities, schools, and even preschools hold special events. These can range from academic conferences and lectures on the president's political role to exhibitions of his books and children's drawing competitions on the theme "The President through the eyes of children."

Cultural Exhibitions: Libraries and museums across the country organize displays dedicated to the president's life and activities, as well as the history of independent Tajikistan.

Official and Military Meetings: Solemn meetings are held in government bodies and military units. These events often feature patriotic speeches and reaffirm loyalty under mottos such as "Loyalty to the President – devotion to the Motherland."

Public Displays: In cities and towns, it is common to see large banners and portraits of the president displayed prominently, often with the inscription, "Our President – our Leader."

The peacemaking initiatives led by the head of state have garnered substantial recognition, both domestically and internationally, including prestigious state and foreign honors, highlighting his commitment to establishing and maintaining regional stability. Emomali Rahmon has been awarded numerous orders, medals, and honorary titles, such as the title of Hero of Tajikistan (1999), Russia's Order of Alexander Nevsky, the Ruby Star “Peacemaker,” the Golden Jubilee Medal of Avicenna, and Afghanistan’s National Hero award named after Ahmad Shah Massoud, among others.

We take great pride in our nation’s observance of this holiday, which unites citizens dedicated to their homeland, demonstrating selfless devotion and a tireless commitment to the nation’s prosperity. “The figure of Emomali Rahmon has become deeply embedded in the collective consciousness of modern Tajik society, symbolizing a foundational element of the political culture within our traditional society, nurtured by the positive archetype of a 'just and enlightened ruler”.

Gaforov A.A -Assistant of Dermatology department ATSMU