The Candidates' Committee yesterday received a large number of citizens wishing to register themselves as candidates in the upcoming Shura Council elections.
The Committee will receive application for registration of candidates daily from 4pm to 8pm at the headquarters of the candidates committee located in the Hall of Events at Qatar University. The registration will continue for five days, until August 26, and the final lists of candidates will be announced on September 15.
Despite a large number of citizens, the process ran smoothly, taking only a few minutes for an individual to register their candidacy.
“We have come to participate in this new experience. Everyone has rejoiced on this occasion,” said Fahad Rashid Al Kaabi, CEO of Manateq.
After submitting his file, he told The Peninsula: “I believe that the community is aware enough to choose highly qualified people to represent them in the upcoming Shura Council.
“One of the important points that I would like to work on if I am lucky to succeed is protecting public money, following up on projects that are being implemented and ensuring their feasibility as well as freedom of opinion.”
There are many other points that I will focus on in my electoral programme, like employment and youth participation, he said. Regarding the huge interest shown by citizens in the registration process on the first day, Al Kaabi said: “The presence of a large number of people who intend to run in the elections is a positive thing. There should be encouragement for choosing competent candidates. We also expect a large participation of citizens (in voting) during the elections.”
About the registration process , Al Kaabi said it was easy and took only a few minutes.
Fahd Al Jaber, another prospective candidate, affirmed his pride in this democratic process established by the Constitution and reinforced by the wise leadership of H H the Amir.
He said he will do his best to meet the demands of citizens in accordance with the regulations and laws in force in the Shura Council system.
Al Jaber stressed that if his candidature is accepted and he becomes a member of the Shura Council, he will struggle for consensus between the Shura and the executive to serve the interests of Qatari citizens.
Meanwhile, Qatar Media Corporation’s Media Support Committee for the Shura Council Elections has invited the nominees to benefit from the free media services which will be provided to them.
A member of the committee said that the nominees can now register, but will benefit from this service only after September 15.
