ABU DHABI // Young Emiratis must become fully engaged in the political process to ensure next month’s FNC elections are a success.
Dr Anwar Gargash, Minister of State for FNC Affairs and Chairman of the National Election Commission, stressed the essential role youths have to play on October 3.
“The youths’ voice is the most important voice in the coming elections,” Dr Gargash said.
“We would like the young of the UAE to vote because they are the builders of the future of this nation.
Their participation will enhance the elections because they’ll be selecting the candidates who will transmit their voice, making them an essential part of the process.”
Dr Gargash was speaking in Al Ain at the UAE University’s Fourth Forum for Building Political Awareness.
The forum was part of the NEC’s efforts to encourage all sections of Emirati society to take part in the elections next month.
“The candidates you select will work on solutions to your issues and legislation that will help your aspirations,” Dr Gargash told the students.
Saleh Al Mahri, 22, a political science student, said the address was very enlightening.
“We’re a unique country going through a unique period in history,” Mr Al Mahri said.
“Dr Gargash shed a light on the sad demise of our soldiers in Yemen. It was amazing to see the solidarity among the Rulers and the families.
“It’s rare to see that closeness anywhere in the world and he put that in perspective.”
Khaled Al Shebli, 23, a software development student, was delighted to hear from such a key decision-maker as Dr Gargash.
“Not only did he talk about the political process and youth involvement, he made us aware of the important role that we play in our nation’s future given the many international challenges the country is facing,” Mr Al Shebli said.
Tarik Lootah, undersecretary for the Ministry of State for FNC Affairs and head of the Elections Management Committee, said the forum aimed to build a political culture among students “by acquainting them with all dimensions of the process”.
“It reaffirms that the electoral process will be enhanced through youth participation and offers them the opportunity to express their opinions by selecting candidates who they feel can achieve their aspirations effectively.”
Mr Lootah said becoming politically aware did honour to the sacrifices made to protect the UAE and its achievements by the fallen Emirati heroes of Yemen.
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