Dubai
Emiratis from different professions, including the first female Emirati photographer, visited the Sunset Mall polling station to cast their votes for this year’s FNC elections.
Voting for the first time, 23-year-old student Fatima Khalifa Al Kitbi felt that it was her duty to take part in the elections to encourage the culture of societal development. She added that she voted for a candidate she knew personally.
“Every candidate has a vision or a message to get across and the candidate I voted for had a message I personally agreed with because he has the necessary experience,” said Fatima.
Though Fatima was amongst the youngest voters to participate in the elections at Sunset Mall, older people, such as 83-year-old Abdullah Rahman Abdullah Al Sharafi, also fulfilled their national duty.
Al Sharafi explained that his vote was given to the candidate he felt would serve his country best.
“I insisted on coming to vote today because not only will the winning candidate represent Emiratis nationwide, but also represent the UAE worldwide,” he said.
Also casting her vote that day was 80-year-old Shaikha Al Suwaidi, the first Emirati female photographer. Using her walker to move through the voting centre, she did not allow her difficulty to walk to get in the way of her duty to participate in the elections.
“I am voting for the first time and I am proud to be part of the process,” said Shaikha. “I am old and it is difficult for me to walk but it is my responsibility to participate in this nationwide initiative.”
Abdullah Falaknaz, a 24-year-old lawyer, participated in the voting process despite his leg injury. Though he was on a wheelchair, Falaknaz visited the voting station along with his cousin to cast his ballot.
“I am voting for the first time and I will definitely do it again because it is my duty to help in choosing the people who will make a difference and contribute to the advancement of our society,” he said.
His cousin, Abdullah Al Mulla, helped Falaknaz by pushing his wheelchair through the polling station and assisted him when he needed to stand up.
Maryam Al Badi, 34-year-old Public Sector Improvement expert, agreed that voting for candidates who will make a difference is part of her duty as an Emirati citizen.
“This is the second time that I am casting my ballot ... it is important to choose the appropriate candidates, who have the necessary skills for the positions,” said Maryam.
She added that her vote had gone to a candidate she felt has the ability to address issues in society.
