Emiratis keen to make their voices heard in October FNC election

As more people are set to vote in Federal National Council elections than ever before, first time voters are now getting to grips with the electoral system.

Members of the Federal National Council get down to business at a meeting in the body’s assembly hall. Wam

ABU DHABI // First-time voters for this year’s FNC elections say they are eager to come to grips with the electoral system.

But they believe more should be done to raise awareness of the election process for the council.

The number of eligible voters for this year’s ballot on October 3 has risen by two thirds since the 2011 election, to 224,279.

Rashid Al Mansoori, 25, a recent college graduate, said people were slowly becoming more aware of the FNC and its role.

He thought, however, it would take time for the importance of the increase in voters to catch on, especially as the announcement was made in Ramadan.

“The democratic process takes time and I believe that the Government is easing our society into it, but I don’t know much about it or the voting process,” Mr Al Mansoori said.

“It’s really amazing that they’ve increased the number of voters significantly but it’s a slow time of the year. The election won’t take place until October. Maybe the news will gain traction and people will get more involved when campaigning starts.”

Shamma K, 27, a management analyst, said she had no idea she was eligible to vote until she was told to check the National Election Commission website.

“My friend works with the Government and follows these things so she told me to check if I was an eligible voter,” Shamma said. “I honestly don’t know why I was selected but I’m very excited to know I’m included this year.

“I plan on educating myself on the whole process and learn everything there is to make an informed vote. I’ll have to listen to the campaign and select someone who represents my views, but as an Emirati woman I’m really keen on supporting women candidates.

“I feel they better understand some of the issues that are close to us but it’s too soon to decide. I look forward to casting my vote in October for the first time.”

Those wishing to nominate candidates for the FNC can do so from August 13. The electoral roll is available online at uaenec.ae, at the NEC call centre on 600 500005, or at any NEC office.

More on the FNC election:

■ Emiratis want more engagement with FNC candidates

■ More transparency needed as UAE political system matures, analysts say

■ Analysis: UAE's political empowerment programe Tamkeen on track for success