Polling in Muharraq’s First Constituency (Busaiteen) began with residents coming out to elect a new MP after the removal of Mohammed Rafiq Al Hussaini from office. Seven independent hopefuls are vying for the seat, with voting starting under the watchful eyes of observers. The chairman of the supervisory committee ensured transparency by showing that the ballot boxes were empty before sealing them and allowing the process to begin. There was a steady stream of voters at the Busaiteen polling station, with people of all ages casting their votes, including a notable number of women.
Small tents were erected near the polling station, where one candidate rallied supporters with loud accompaniments to drum up votes. Representatives from Bahrain Transparency Society and the National Institution for Human Rights (NIHR) monitored the proceedings to ensure that no undue pressure was exerted on any candidates. Dr. Hooriya Al Dairi, speaking for NIHR, mentioned that ten members were monitoring the process to ensure transparency. Measures were put in place to assist people with disabilities, including providing wheelchairs and helping those with poor eyesight.
Layla Ibrahim, a retired health worker, praised the voting process for being efficient and considerate of older voters. She appreciated the efforts made by the supervisory committee to ensure accessibility for all voters. Candidate Qarata expressed gratitude to the supervisory committee for ensuring a smooth election and thanked the voters for their participation. He emphasized the importance of patriotism in his campaign by choosing the color red, symbolizing Bahrain’s flag. He shared his confidence in his electoral program’s ability to secure a seat in Parliament.
Public polling stations at Seef Mall and Bahrain International Airport saw a relatively modest turnout compared to the Busaiteen polling station. The turnout at these locations was lower, but the process was still monitored by observers to ensure transparency. Overall, the election in Muharraq’s First Constituency saw significant participation from residents, with various candidates vying for the seat left vacant by Mohammed Rafiq Al Hussaini. The transparency of the process was ensured by the presence of observers and supervisory committees.
The importance of ensuring accessibility for all voters, including those with disabilities, was highlighted during the election. Measures were put in place to assist those who needed help, such as providing wheelchairs and helping individuals with poor eyesight. The presence of representatives from organizations like Bahrain Transparency Society and NIHR further ensured that the election was conducted fairly and without any undue pressure on the candidates. The participation of women, young voters, and older voters was notable, showcasing a diverse demographic taking part in the electoral process.
Candidate Qarata’s emphasis on patriotism and the importance of representing the people’s interests resonated with voters, as evidenced by the turnout at the polling stations. His confidence in his electoral program’s ability to secure a seat in Parliament reflects the optimism and determination of candidates vying for the vacant seat. The election in Muharraq’s First Constituency is a clear reflection of the democratic process in Bahrain, with residents actively engaging in the selection of their representative. The smooth conduct of the election, coupled with the efforts to ensure transparency and accessibility, showcases a commitment to upholding democratic values and principles.
