RAS AL KHAIMAH // With many votes cast last week, the atmosphere on the final day of the polls in RAK was subdued.
Though the process went smoothly for most of the day, a few technical hitches took place in the morning, said Dr Saif Al Shaali, a member of RAK elections committee.
“We had some difficulties during the early hours for about ten minutes, but it didn’t effect the process,” said Dr Al Shaali.
The papers of some would-be voters were rejected, Dr Al Shaali said, on grounds of ineligibility.
The voting day was also tinged with sadness after it was announced that candidate Abdul Aziz Al Shehhi had died of a heart attack at home.
Of the 40 voting machines installed at the emirate’s Expo Centre, many were unoccupied by the time Marwa Al Shahi came to vote.
“I live in Abu Dhabi but I was visiting some relatives here and I didn’t want to waste my chance to vote, so I came here,” said the 21-year-old.
“The hall is huge and empty. I thought that I would find many citizens lining up to participate in the elections, but maybe if I came earlier I would have found more people,” she said.
Among those who made it to the centre was Yousef Al Tunaiji, joined by his seven-year-old son.
“The staff were very helpful. They explained all the procedures and it was very smooth. I’m glad to have had the chance in choosing the person that would represent us at the FNC,” said Mr Al Tunaiji.
“My son joined me during the process and now he realizes how important this step is and why he should always participate in such a huge event,” said the 26-year-old.
Waleed Khamis, 40, a veteran FNC voter, was accompanied by his eight-year-old daughter.
Mr Khamis said he felt the election had gone well.
“This is my third time and I’m very proud of the improvements and the smooth process.
“I allowed my daughter to make the voting process under my supervision, of course. She enjoyed it a lot.”
rhaza@thenational.ae
