Middle East yearns for democracy after news of Egypt’s election holiday spreads

Fresh voices across the Middle East were calling for democracy this morning, following news of yesterday’s official holiday in Egypt to encourage people to vote in the presidential election.

“I appreciate that I already get quite a few days off over the year, but one more would definitely do the trick,” said Omar Abbas, a local government worker in Qatar. “And on a Monday too, nicely breaking up the week.”

In Saudi Arabia, hundreds have demanded a political shift towards democracy after reports emerged of the Egyptian election holiday.

“Man, if they’re doing it in order to get people to vote, I’d withhold my democratic privileges for a bit longer and try to get another day!” said Saeed Al Bergasi, a shop assistant in Riyadh.