It was encouraging to see hundreds of Omanis forming long queues to cast their votes in their country's second open elections for Majlis Al Shura, Oman's legislature. Even more interesting was the fact that there were more women than men at the various polling stations.
The Omani government ensured that women had a separate entrance and a separate voting room at different venues in order to make them feel comfortable and to make their experience more efficient. Some women were seen with their toddlers and some even accompanied their elder mothers to vote.
But despite the massive turnout of female voters, it was interesting to note that the 21 female candidates, including Raheela Al Riyami - twice winner from Baushar - failed to win seats. This could be attributed to the fact that tribal affiliation might have overshadowed voter's choices.
Nevertheless, Oman has come a long way since its first election in 2003. For one thing, the registration of voters has risen by more than 100,000 indicating comprehensive participation by Omani citizens.
The elections are a major step towards enforcing Oman's democratisation process. Indeed, the country was one of the first Gulf Cooperation Council states to form a body that is elected directly by the people.
