UAE citizens cheer on democracy at Sharjah elections

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The first day of voting for Sharjah Consultative Council (SCC) elections which started on Thursday at 8am saw a huge turnout. Sharjah citizens from various sectors of society flocked to cast their vote and select the candidates they believe is perfect to convey their message to be addressed by the government.
Voters arrived before time, showing their enthusiasm to be part of the decision-making process and contribute effectively in the development of the emirate.
Employees from various government departments were seen arriving in vans and buses; families, including parents, grandparents and children gathered to support their sons, relatives or friends who are running for election. 
Mohammed Al Matroushi, 73, said "Today is Sharjah's great historical moment, which reflects its democratic policies and efforts of involving its sons in decision making. It is a great event which we were waiting for; I brought all members of my family to participate in this great day for Sharjah."
Mansour Mohammad Nasser, chairman of the Higher Committee for Sharjah Consultative Council election said that he expects a large turnout of voters throughout the four days. "I believe that all of 24,952 people above the age of 21, including men and women who registered for voting are expected to arrive to cast their vote. On Friday a greater turnout is expected as it is a holiday and convenient day for everyone."
Speaking to reporters, Dr Anwar Mohammed Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Minister of Federal National Council of Affairs, and Chairman of the National Election Committee, who visited the poll station in Sharjah Cultural and Chess Club as an observer, said the Sharjah election experience is unique and is following the vision of the President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan through the Tamkeen program
Today is considered a historic day for the emirate of Sharjah and is a great festival for its citizen to celebrate democracy. His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, announced that the Sharjah Consultative Council (SCC) will see half of its 42 members elected in the upcoming term while the rest of the members will be appointed by the Ruler.

• Sharjah