‘Unemployment and housing’ most urgent issues needing action

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com   

Five candidates yesterday filed their applications for the by-elections in Muharraq’s First Constituency at Busaiteen Intermediate School.

Among them were three men and two women, one of whom had her writing proficiency evaluated, as mentioned by the Chairman of the Supervisory Committee overseeing the process. Even before the official process was underway, eager candidates were already gathering at the supervisory centre for the First Constituency in Muharraq, ready to submit their applications for the recently vacated seat.

The Daily Tribune managed to speak with some of those who arrived early.

Discussions largely revolved around unemployment and housing, which several candidates viewed as urgent issues. Former MP Hamad Al Kawheji was the first to arrive, well before the centre opened.

His early presence suggests a strong intent to reclaim his position. He spoke about the need to address social insurance and his aim to continue efforts to improve the standard of living for citizens.

Deep ties

Businessman Ebrahim Al Shaikh highlighted his deep ties to the constituency.

From an economic standpoint, he pointed to the importance of raising living standards. The first female candidate to arrive was Lawyer Khawla Al Shamsi, who brings over two decades of experience in state administration.

She aims to be a voice for women in the Kingdom and mentioned to The Daily Tribune that she is currently preparing her stance on the new lawyers’ law.

Steps

Dr Ali Al Shuwaikh, Head of the Higher Supervisory Committee, detailed the required steps for candidacy in the First Muharraq constituency. Candidates must submit various documents, including copies of their ID card, passport, birth certificate, proof of fee payment to the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Waqf, along with a personal photo and a CV.

Al Shuwaikh noted that once submitted, legal requirements related to nationality, age, residency, and criminal record, among other criteria, will be verified.

The application will then either be approved or rejected.

Appeal

He also confirmed that candidates whose applications are rejected have the right to appeal the decision before the High Court of Appeal.

Dr Al Shuwaikh mentioned that the committee is currently reviewing all applications, including the one involving the writing assessment. The results will be announced in due course.