The huge extension of the number of nominated voters to 129,000 for the next elections to the Federal National Council (FNC), is a major achievement. The federal government and the National Election Committee are to be congratulated on the massive increase from the previous 6,600 who were nominated to vote in the 2006 elections.
Obviously this is not the universal franchise that some have called for, but the number of voters is much more than seemed likely only a few months ago and the stage is now set for a lively campaigning season. It is important that the elections attract candidates with ability.
A chamber can only be as effective as its members, and the FNC needs the best that the emirates can provide. It is a national duty for Emiratis with social and political conscience to stand, and for the voters to pick those whom they think can make the most effective contribution to the change that is certainly coming to the UAE.
President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan has laid out a clear strategic plan for more inclusive government at the federal level, and the FNC will be required to take a more responsible role over time. An important job for the next FNC will be to discuss how it can take a more active role in defining legislation, moving the chamber on from the purely supervisory role that it plays at present.
Candidates have to register between August 14 and 20, and campaigning is due to happen between September 4 and 21, with the elections on September 24. The process is being managed by the National Election Committee, and it will be important for the success of the next FNC that all candidates get out and campaign vigorously, so that the electorate are able to make the choice on the basis of the policies being suggested, rather than personality or family.