Federal National Council Elections Scheduled for October 7
The next round of voting for the Federal National Council (FNC) in the United Arab Emirates is set to take place on October 7, according to the National Elections Committee (NEC). The NEC recently announced the schedule for the 2023 elections and revealed an increase in the number of electoral college members.
With the goal of promoting inclusivity and equal representation, the electoral college lists for the 2023 elections now consist of 51 percent women and 49 percent men, according to the NEC. Moreover, the age group of 21-40 makes up 55 percent of the list, with nearly 30 percent falling between the ages of 21 and 30, and just over 25 percent aged 31-40. This offers young Emiratis across the UAE the opportunity to participate in the democratic process and choose their representatives in the FNC.
Dr. Abdul Rahman bin Mohammad bin Nasser Al Owais, Minister of State for FNC Affairs and chairman of the NEC, expressed the importance of the electoral college announcement, stating that it marks a significant milestone in organizing the electoral process according to the UAE people’s aspirations. He emphasized the UAE’s commitment to a parliamentary model built on consultation and effective participation in decision-making.
The electoral college consists of 398,879 members, and the distribution among the emirates is as follows: 126,779 from Abu Dhabi, 73,181 from Dubai, 72,946 from Sharjah, 12,600 from Ajman, 7,577 from Umm Al Quwain, 62,197 from Ras Al Khaimah, and 43,559 from Fujairah. To improve convenience for voters, authorities have introduced a hybrid system that allows both in-person and remote voting. If individuals vote multiple times, only their last vote will be counted.
As the date of the FNC elections approaches, the UAE continues to prioritize democratic participation and inclusiveness. The NEC is committed to upholding the UAE’s parliamentary model by ensuring fair representation for all segments of society. By increasing the participation of women and young Emiratis, the UAE aims to foster a vibrant and diverse political landscape that truly represents the aspirations and interests of its people.
In conclusion, the upcoming FNC elections in the UAE are set to take place on October 7, bringing an opportunity for citizens to choose their representatives. The increased representation of women and young Emiratis in the electoral college lists reflects the country’s commitment to inclusivity and democratic values. By upholding transparency and fairness in the electoral process, the UAE aims to further develop its parliamentary model and provide a platform for effective citizen participation in decision-making.
