May the best candidates win this FNC election

Voting day is here. It's down to the final stretch in this festival of democracy. The voters will let their ballot speak today. The candidates made their pitches during the month-long campaign. Emotions will be myriad - ranging from suspense, excitement and disappointment among the hopefuls and citizens who vote for them. The Federal National Council beckons the winners, 20 of them, who are expected to make a difference in governance.
The UAE has ushered in electoral reforms with a certain flair as countries in the region struggle to take the political process forward without a churning in society. It's still a fledgling process though, but the electorate has grown with each election - this is the third poll to be held in the country. Awareness is rising among both candidates and voters. There's focus on the future and what's interesting is that more women and youth are coming forward to stand as candidates. They want to be agents of change while keeping their tradition and customs alive. No external force will drive these developments, they have resolved. The UAE is striving to develop its institutions and reform its systems of governance. The aim is make life easier for residents. His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, is keen on taking the government to the people with the aid of technology. Services are being delivered quicker online. Rulers and officials keep communication channels open with the people. This is clearly a government on the move. Institutions and people have to keep pace with it, and it needs young blood who want to get things done in real time, everytime.
The Federal National Council reflects the new thinking in the government and the aspirations of its citizens. It raises the problems of the people and seeks ways to find solutions. It's a kind of mass contact programme that Emiratis will get to see and experience. They will work closely with the government and be part of the political and power structure. This year's election included overseas ballots, a single-vote system and more awareness campaigns to improve turnout. A judge will also head a panel to hear appeals by candidates after the results are announced later in the evening.
More voters are expected to arrive at polling centres on their big day this time around - 224,279 are on the rolls. Balloting is electronic and measures are in place to ensure a smooth poll.
The political process will take another step forward when eligible voters press the balloting machines to pick their candidates. Their vote is a leap of faith in the government, its leaders and the country's institutions. Voters from all sections of Emirati society will make their voices heard through their ballots. May the best candidates win.