Elections reflect the true spirit of Emiratis

The first democratic celebration in the UAE concluded with a fruitful political experiment. This experience has contributed to a healthy political activity, which ushers in more democratic steps and political development.

During the elections, the streets of UAE cities were decorated with posters of Emiratis - men and women - who nominated themselves to be members of the Federal National Council, with the aim of participating in the political development process.

The positive political atmosphere, which prevailed during the country's landmark elections, indicated that Emiratis are serious about being granted a chance to carry out some of their duties and serve their country.

The huge voter and candidate turnout was not strange, but is evidence of the political awareness of the UAE citizens.

It also indicates that this country has all the fundamentals of success, especially after the federal state had proved that unity and solidarity are the future's real guarantee.

The UAE model of unity is a natural result of the seeds sown by the country's visionary founders.

The UAE's historic leadership has successfully managed to establish a strong footing in the globe, even though the region is rife with political crises and conflicts.

This is attributed to the strong will, determination and political wisdom of the country's great founders and current leaders.

This is also a proof of the leadership's good planning in tune with international changes and new trends that call for human rights and the principles of equity and justice.

The UAE has made great strides in many areas, especially in the economic field.

In economy, the UAE succeeded in diversifying its sources of income instead of relying on its oil fortune. It made headway in all economic fields, placing itself in a leading position on the world map.

With respect to political development, the UAE leadership was seriously concerned about this issue, but was waiting for appropriate circumstances to take a decision.

The regional, national and international experiences were not encouraging that time, as the misuse of democracy and political development were the main reasons for delaying such a decision.

However, the enthusiasm of the young leadership has contributed to the historic decision by President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The decision was well studied and timely, and the later steps might be slow due to the particularity of the UAE society, but more effective.

The first reading of the results of the FNC polls show that many facts were established. Shaikh Khalifa and His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, stressed that activating the FNC role is the most important issue at this stage.

The landmark move to activate the FNC's role is just a first step towards a wider representation of UAE citizens in public life, which will be followed by more steps.

The elections, however, stressed a number of facts.

Among these facts is the healthy political activity experienced through election campaigns, seminars and gatherings, which mirrored the awareness of UAE nationals.

Second fact

The second fact is that UAE women have proved their political presence through media and meetings with electoral commissions.

Such awareness and activity indicate that the UAE woman has exceeded her role from an observer to a real player in the local area.

Women's strong presence during the elections came to translate Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid's say: "The woman is the spirit of the place," into reality.

The third fact is that the National Elections Committee led by Dr Anwar Mohammad Gargash, Minister of State for FNC Affairs, played a great role in organising the elections.

The e-voting system proved successful, and the government had succeeded in employing the latest technologies. This is an achievement to be credited to the organisers of this democratic experiment.

The elections were conducted smoothly, fairly and freely, and this fact was confirmed by local and international media.

The historic elections mark for the first time women's participation in the FNC with the election of Dr Amal Al Kubaisi as the first female member of the council.

This national celebration will be completed when Their Highnesses the Members of the Supreme Council and the Rulers of the Emirates appoint the remaining 20 members.

As we congratulate the winners, we hope that our children will benefit from the democratic atmosphere that enveloped the country during the elections in the best interests of the nation and its citizens.

Dr Mohammad Abdullah Al Mutawa is a professor of Sociology at the UAE University, Al Ain.