Bahrainis turn out in force for charter vote

Thousands of Bahrainis yesterday lined up at polling stations in various parts of the country to vote in the first referendum of its kind in the Gulf region, offering landmark reforms including voting rights to all citizens, men and women, above the age of 21.The two-day referendum on the National Action Charter which will bring about constitutional changes and economic and social reforms calls for a partially elected parliament, a constitutional monarchy and an independent judiciary.

Government employees and workers in other establishments all over the island cast their votes yesterday. Others will be voting at 47 polling centres today from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Emir His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Prime Minister Sheikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and the Crown Prince Sheikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa visited the referendum committee on the NAC at Riffa Palace yesterday.

Accompanied by senior members of the ruling family and the staff of the Emir's Court, the three voted at the polling centre there. Expressing his appreciation, Sheikh Hamad thanked all citizens for the enthusiasm shown for the referendum process. "This not only demonstrated their keen interest in joining hands in the task of nation building but also their loyalty to the nation," Sheikh Hamad said.

Votes will be counted by a committee comprising the President of the High Civil Court, along with 10 civil and religious judges. The results will be announced 24 hours after counting is completed.Bahrainis appeared buzzing with excitement as they waited for their turn to vote, conversing cheerfully and exchanging greetings. Many cars in the capital were draped in the white-and-red flags of Bahrain and pictures of Sheik Hamad and Sheik Salman.

"There are many reasons for us to cast a "yes" vote," said Sayed Al Gabr Ibrahim, a 32-year-old doctor. "The government has shown us a willingness to change things for the better. There is no reason to doubt that this charter is one of those positive changes."

"I'm voting for the charter in the hope it will help reactivate the constitution," Abdulnabi Ahmed, 43, said. "This is an historical era that would include public participation in decision-making." "We have big hope for better change in the near future," said a woman, who asked not to be named. Another woman, Effat Aseeri, said: "As a woman, I feel I now have a value and my voice can be heard." Bahrain's Information Minister Mohammad Ibrahim Al Mutawa said yesterday that all political prisoners had been released in line with a general amnesty.