Candidate senses victory

Kuwait City: With Kuwaiti women being allowed to engage in political life after a long struggle, many Kuwaitis are expecting women to play an important role in the coming era.

Kuwaiti women were granted their political rights in an historic move last year. Soon after the Kuwaiti Emir dissolved Parliament last May and announced the date for the new elections, with scores of women registering their names as candidates.

Meanwhile, citizens are in discussions over how women voters and candidates may change society.

Nabila Al Anjeri is one candidate who keeps stressing to her voters that "victory is closer than ever to her."

However, many people believe it will be hard for women to break into politics.

"I don't think women will bring any surprises in this election," said Jenan Bousheri, former candidate for the municipality elections. Bousheri came second in the election with a male candidate scooping top place. But as a woman in a male-dominated society this was a victory for her and many others.

Many people are still suspicious of women's ability to bring any noticeable change to political life.

"I will vote only for the person my husband chooses because I have difficulty in choosing among such a large number of candidates," said Mariam Al Obedi, a housewife.

Earlier, Nawal Al Bader, one of the female candidates, told the Al Watan newspaper that she was not using all her energy in this election because she sees it as a preparation for the next election in 2010.

"I will not be surprised to see all the female candidates lose because most women are still influenced by their spouses or family members," said Nora Salem, an attorney.

Nahed Al Eisa, a college student said she would be happy to see any female candidates win.