The Public Service Commission has approved the temporary closure of all non-essential government offices during the Christmas and New Year period, from 29 December 2025 to 2 January 2026.
In a circular issued by Acting Permanent Secretary for Civil Service Pita Tagicakirewa, ministries and departments were notified of the annual shutdown, which is intended to support staff wellbeing while ensuring essential services remain unaffected.
“The Public Service Commission has approved the temporary closure of non-essential Government offices over the Christmas and New Year period,” Tagicakirewa said.
He added that critical services would continue as usual.
“All essential services are to remain fully operational, with appropriate staffing arrangements in place to ensure continuity of critical public services.”
Permanent Secretaries have been advised to encourage staff to use their annual leave or Time-Off-In-Lieu entitlements during the closure.
Tagicakirewa said ministries would have flexibility to determine staffing needs.
“Permanent Secretaries will retain discretion to determine whether skeleton staff are required to maintain specific services and, where necessary, put in place suitable rosters and coverage arrangements,” he said.
He emphasised that the short shutdown would benefit public servants after a demanding year.
“This period provides an opportunity for staff to rest and spend quality time with their families and loved ones over the festive season, contributing positively to staff wellbeing and morale,” Tagicakirewa said.
The closure period will see normal operations resume on 3 January 2026.
