National Election Committee unveils timeline for polls

Abu Dhabi: The National Election Committee (NEC) yesterday unveiled the timeline for the Federal National Council (FNC) elections that are set to take place on December 16, 18 and 20.

The announcement comes as part of the NEC's commitment to train members of the Electoral College (EC) on the election process.

The timeline includes announcing the final lists of the Electoral College, the NEC decision to begin nominations, registration of nominees, and the announcement of the primary candidate list, electioneering and the deadline for presenting representatives authorised to act on behalf of the nominees in the election campaign.

The timeline also includes the dates for the first, second and third polls, announcing the results of the primary count of votes and the deadline for submitting challenges against the vote counts.

Appeals

It also includes dates for the supplemental elections, the deadline for submitting appeals against the votes count, and the timeline for the NEC's response to these appeals.

"The upcoming FNC election is the right step in paving the way for wider representation of the UAE citizens and the empowerment of the council. The process will also encourage the emergence of a new generation of young leaders and bring energy and commitment to the work of the FNC," said Tariq Hilal Lootah, Secretary-General of FNC Affairs Ministry.

Lootah, also a member of the NEC and Head of the Election Management Committee, said the NEC is stepping up its efforts to promote awareness on the election process. "We are working closely with members of the EC to ensure that the UAE's first-ever election is successful."