Qatar Referendum: Hailed as success for democracy

The Qatari referendum held last Tuesday is being hailed as a success not only in terms of constitutional development in the Gulf but also for paving the way for parliamentary democracy.

The referendum on the creation of the 150-article constitution has, at around 96 per cent, received massive support from the Qatari people who approve of the new development. The following is a look at how it was perceived in the Arabic press.

The Qatari newspapers are undoubtedly very excited about the new constitutional development.

Abdel Lateef Abdallah Al Mahmoud, Editor-in-Chief of the Doha-based Al Sharaq daily, said the people have said their say…collectively agreeing with the level and horizons of their leadership about their future characterised by the "legal state", "institutional" structure and "responsible popular participation".

He added: "Our people have chosen to rewrite history according to what they want and hope for."

The popular referendum has been praised by many - and the columnist is one of them - for its transparency.

Al Mahmoud said the people said "yes to the Emir, the nation and constitution and to the good of the future which we hope for our sons".

He added that the referendum will not only change the "face of Qatar" but the whole Gulf area.

On a similar note, Al Watan (Qatar), in its editorial comment, was equally robust. The newspaper said all praise must go to the Emir of Qatar who introduced the first constitution for the country and, as a result, April 29 was a historic day measured by all standards, a "real democratic wedding" according to the vision of its ruler.

Voted enthusiastically

The editorial went on to state that the people voted enthusiastically and without the need for the declaration of a public holiday. What the referendum proved, the editorial added, is the re-emphasis of a modern state that is open to the world but intrinsically related to its roots and "natural land".

Ahmed Al Rab'ee was also quick off the mark about the latest development in the Gulf emirate. Writing in Al Sharq Al Awsat (UK-based), Al Rab'ee gave the thumbs up to the elections. With regard to the Yemeni and Qatari elections which occurred this week, he said: "These two developments are a big step forward for political and social stability, and are in the national interest."

Indeed, they serve to dissipate tensions.

Talking about the Arab nation, Al Rab'ee said there is a problem of popular participation and what is now required is "real participation" rather than what he called "political décor", meaning a semblance of political participation.

He pointed out, however, conditions can't be imposed, for each country has its own political, social and economic conditions, but the way to the "one thousand mile starts with one step".

An interesting view was presented by Saad Taflah Al Ajmi writing in Al Ittihad (UAE) who said he believes this is the beginning of democratic changes not only in Qatar, but the whole region, a view shared by many in the area.

But he added, referring specifically to Doha, the changes are to be part of the continuation and development of the very life itself in that country.

Changes from inside

Al Ajimi astutely observed that the changes from inside have proven that it's much better than having changes imposed by others.

He added that despite the political changes and the creation of an assembly, the Qatari leadership has recognised the need for the changes in light of the international developments taking place.