Parliament polls reflect genuine identity of Kuwait’s democracy – Candidates invited to air manifestos on TV, radio

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KUWAIT CITY, Oct 30, (KUNA): Since the announcement of opening registration for the 2016 Parliament elections’ candidacy on Oct 19, Kuwaitis have been living, and enjoying, the true sense of democracy once again, with all eyes locked on the Nov 26 ballot. An observer can sense it almost everywhere and in every casual conversation, either in campaign headquarters, Diwaniyas, traditional or social media outlets, all boisterous on the issues of candidates’ agendas, chances, tactics and even logistics.

Another aspect that dominated such vibrant atmosphere is the fact that these particular elections will take place in the midst of regional and global challenges that require choosing competent representatives for the Kuwaiti people.

Parliament elections had always reflected the genuine identity of Kuwaiti democracy in light of ever-lasting prosperity enjoyed by Kuwait since its inception, in addition to the sturdy and distinguished relationship between the leadership and people. This upcoming democratic event should be invested in bringing up Kuwait’s luminous democratic image. However, this goal will not be reached unless voters are aware and cautioned of not being dragged into, or practice, negative behavior that would mar the balloting process.

It is safe to say that most candidates stepped into the elections’ arena in a bid to support the democratic process and contribute in achieving the country’s development plan, as well as meeting the people’s aspirations of reform and progress. Among the files tabled before the potential MPs are security, economy, housing, education, health care, women, youth and sport issues.

Thus, embracing democracy’s vast and various tenors is virtually impossible if political, social, economic, cultural and religious awareness was not at hand. With this being said, it is now the role of the state’s institutions in enlightening voters on the sound democratic practice in a manner that would also preserve their rights as citizens as stipulated in the Constitution.

A total of 454 candidates, including 15 women so far officially registered for the 2016 parliamentary election. According to the Ministry of Interior, candidates who wish to withdraw from the race can submit a request to the Elections’ Affairs Department up until seven days before elections’ day, or Nov 19. As per Law No. 20/2012, the first 10 candidates with most votes will win a seat in parliament in each constituency. The electorate can only vote for one candidate per the constituency they’re registered in.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah has dissolved the parliament on Oct 16, citing various challenges and regional critical conditions. Meanwhile, the Kuwaiti Information Ministry announced Sunday its readiness to receive requests of male and female candidates for the parliamentary elections of Nov 26 who wish to broadcast their election programs on Kuwait radio and television as well as on other social media outlets of the ministry during the period from Oct 30 until Nov 11.

The ministry said in a press statement that the candidates will be given an equal period of time free of charge, where they can present their views and opinions they want to deliver to their voters. It indicated that this initiative stems from its belief in the vital role of the media in showing the true picture of Kuwaiti democracy and to spread awareness.

The ministry confirmed its commitment to voters’ awareness, including their rights and duties by creating direct contact with citizens, calling on all candidates to invest this democratic event in the origination of the national spirit and highlighting the bright democratic image of Kuwait. The ministry called on candidates who wish to broadcast their election programs to contact the following numbers: (22425257) or at fax number (22457036) during official working hours or via the following e-mail address: (malomah2016gmail.com). It also called on the candidates to provide their official candidacy papers. A total of 454 candidates, including 15 women so far officially registered for the 2016 parliamentary election.

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