Tucumán governor declares half-day leave for Argentina's World Cup match

Tucumán Governor Osvaldo Jaldo has declared administrative and school leave starting at noon on Tuesday, coinciding with Argentina's World Cup knockout match against Egypt. Jaldo acknowledged the decision might be controversial but stated it's a way to offer joy to citizens during a critical phase of the tournament.

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It's a debatable issue and a decision, we could say, controversial, where many will agree and others disagree. But Argentina is giving us that bit of joy that the people need. It's what has brought a smile and celebration to many families who have been suffering.

"Argentina is giving us that bit of joy that the people need. It's what has brought a smile and celebration to many families who have been suffering," Jaldo explained during a press conference. He emphasized the need for Argentines to fully support the national team as it enters the final stages of the World Cup.

The governor clarified that the leave applies exclusively to the provincial executive branch. Other branches of government, as well as businesses, are free to make their own decisions regarding operations for the day. This move follows similar precedents in other Argentine provinces, such as La Rioja, which also granted leave after Argentina's initial World Cup victory.

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Argentines must support our Selection 100%, because we are in the final stages, where the world championship is decided. Therefore, as a Government, we will implement a resolution so that from 12 o'clock we will grant administrative leave.

The last nationwide holiday was declared in December 2022 after Argentina won the World Cup in Qatar, allowing citizens to celebrate the victory. The upcoming match against Egypt is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. Argentine time in Atlanta, USA.

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The other powers (Legislative and Judicial) will have to see what they do, as will businesses, so that they can make the decision they deem appropriate.