Saleh Al Sada Appeals Against Opponents in Muharraq By-Election, Citing Residency Concerns

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

In a surprising turn of events, Saleh Al Sada, a candidate for the first constituency in Muharraq Governorate, has filed an appeal against his opponents, former MP Hamad Al Kooheji and businessman Ebrahim Al Shaikh, in the upcoming by-election. This move came despite publicly expressing on Monday satisfaction with the supervisory committee's decision regarding his initial objection to their candidacy.

The appeal, filed with the High Court of Appeals, alleges that Al Kooheji and Al Shaikh do not reside in the constituency. Al Sada claims to have presented evidence and documents to support his claim, stating that the two candidates do not meet the residency requirements for the constituency.

Al Sada's decision to appeal, after initially stating in a video posted on his Instagram account that he was content with the supervisory committee's decision, has raised eyebrows. The committee, headed by Dr Ali Al Shuwaikh, dismissed Al Sada's concerns, prompting him to seek legal recourse.

The High Court of Appeals has scheduled a hearing to announce its decision on his appeal on Wednesday. The court's decision will determine whether Al Kooheji and Al Shaikh will remain in the race.

The by-election for the first constituency in Muharraq is scheduled for September. Eight candidates are vying for the vacant seat, including Al Sada, Al Kooheji, Al Shaikh, Dr Khawla Al Shamsi, Dr Nada bin Shams, Abdulwahed Qarata, Abdulaziz Al Manaei, and Mallah Al Qahtani.

The by-election was triggered by the Court of Cassation's decision to revoke the membership of former MP Mohammed Al Hussaini due to his holding of dual citizenship, a violation of Bahraini electoral laws.