A record-breaking 73 per cent voter turnout was registered during the first round of 2022 national elections.
This is the highest since the first elections in 2002, said Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Minister Nawaf Al Maawda. He added that a new chapter in Bahrain’s democratic history has been “written in bold letters”.
“The success of this year’s national polls is evident with the high level of participation of citizens, and a total of 73pc turnout has been registered,” said Mr Al Maawada during a post-elections Press conference held at the media centre in Crowne Plaza Bahrain.
“This is the highest since the 2002 polls when the turnout was 53.5pc.”
During the 2018 polls the turnout was 67pc.
A total of 344,713 voters were registered to cast their ballots this year to elect 40 members of Parliament and 30 municipal councillors for the four governorates; the Capital Trustees Board is appointed by His Majesty King Hamad.
The theme of this year’s poll is: ‘We vote for Bahrain’ and more than 500 election hopefuls contested yesterday.
“This is a great achievement that shows that Bahrainis are keen to be part of the electoral process and understand their national responsibility. There were no electoral-related complaints filed and if there are issues between the candidates, then its to be dealt by the Interior Ministry or the Public Prosecution.”
The minister further highlighted that attempts to hinder the poll process had failed, adding that investigation continues by relevant authorities to track down the violators.
Also co-chairing the Press conference last night was Legislation and Legal Opinion Commission and 2022 Elections executive director Nawaf Hamza who lauded the honourable stance of citizens to exercise their legal rights.
“The polling stations opened at 8am and the ballot boxes were inspected by the judges to ensure they were empty in the presence of media following which they were sealed,” said Mr Hamza.
“The voting process went smoothly and we received requests from 14,000 volunteers who played a key part in this election.”
Furthermore, Mr Hamza said special procedures were undertaken for the first time to accommodate Covid-19 voters.
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