MORE than 200 candidates filed their nominations in the first two hours of the doors opening for registration for Bahrain 2022 elections yesterday.
Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Minister Nawaf Al Maawda told the GDN that he hoped that this was the ‘first sign of success’, as the kingdom goes to polls on November 12 to elect 40 members of Parliament and 30 councillors in three governorates, with the Capital Trustees Board being nominated.
The run-off round is scheduled for November 19.
Mr Al Maawda was speaking as he toured the Yatrib Intermediate School for Girls in Hamad Town, the supervisory centre for the Northern Governorate, the largest of all four, with 12 constituencies.
“We are very glad that the candidates up to now – the first two hours – reached more than 200 candidates and there are more waiting,” he said.
“We are very glad that the number is rising and we appreciate that they (candidates) have been patient with us – waiting two hours ahead of time at the centres to file their nominations.
“And we very glad that everyone is happy and enjoying the elections.”
He lauded the teamwork of the government entities involved in the elections logistics, acknowledging their co-operation in making the polls smooth and successful.
“There is a full team working behind the scenes, manned by volunteers and experienced staff, who are also trained to deal with the elections, ensuring transparency of the system.
“And we hope this will be the first sign of success of Elections 2022.”
Meanwhile, Legalisation and Legal Opinion Commission and Elections executive director Nawaf Hamza described how Bahrainis are always eager to serve their country.
“Despite the challenges we face in the region Bahraini nationals are always keen to be part of the electoral process,” Mr Hamza told the GDN.
“People in Bahrain have great awareness and know the importance of the elections. The huge turnouts shows the success of the electoral process. This is a very healthy and positive start for the elections.”
Candidates for parliament and municipal council polls will be allowed to file nominations until Sunday in designated centres in the four governorates.
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