Top official praises poll candidates' enthusiasm

Dubai: The final day of registration for the Federal National Council candidacy in Dubai saw candidates of various backgrounds filing papers, receiving praise from a top official.

The Minister of State for FNC Affairs, Dr Anwar Gargash, said yesterday he was impressed with the enthusiasm of candidates who ranged from doctors to artists and business people.

"This is very encouraging, since it is our first experience of this kind. The good news is that all the election centres have had a good experience," he said.

The last day of registration in Abu Dhabi saw around 15 candidates up until noon. The unofficial number of candidates registered is around 70. In Sharjah more women showed up on the last day to register their candidacy. Unconfirmed reports indicated at least one woman has put herself forward as a candidate to represent Fujairah.

With inputs from Alia Al Theeb, Mohammad Shamseddine, Nasouh Nazzal and Fuad Ali