Election Campaign Heats Up in Muharraq's First Constituency

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

The electoral campaign for the upcoming by-election in the First Constituency of Muharraq, known as "Busaiteen," is gaining momentum as candidates gear up for the September 7th vote.

Seven candidates confirmed to their plans to open campaign headquarters this weekend and early next week. These include: Hamad Al Kooheji, Ebrahim Al Shaikh, Dr Khawla Al Shamsi, Saleh Al Sada, and Abdulaziz Al Manaei, as well as Abdulaziz Qarata. Malallah Al Qahṭani had previously announced his withdrawal from the race.

The upcoming weekend is expected to see a surge in campaigning activities, just a week before the election. Candidates have been actively engaging with voters through town halls and social media, strongly emphasizing online campaigns.

"We have finalised our election programmes and are preparing to officially launch our campaign headquarters in the coming days," several candidates told our sister newspaper Alayam.

Former MP and current candidate Hamad Al Kooheji confirmed his plans to open his headquarters within the next few days. He stated that he prefers to coordinate with other candidates before setting a specific date. The headquarters will be open daily until the pre-election silence period and will be located opposite Hassan Mosque. Al Kooheji emphasised his consistent engagement with the community, highlighting his continuous communication with residents beyond election cycles.

He outlined a clear and concise action plan for the by-election, developed in collaboration with the community, focusing on vital issues specific to the area.

Al Shaikh's campaign manager confirmed the readiness of their headquarters, with the tent already set up. However, the official opening date is still under discussion with other candidates to determine a suitable date, likely this weekend.

Al Shaikh's team has already started organising field visits to strengthen communication with residents, along with posting content on Instagram.

Lawyer Dr Al Shamsi announced her intention to open her headquarters this coming Friday. She outlined a structured plan for the by-election, including frequent field visits and town hall meetings to engage with residents of the First Constituency of Muharraq.

Al Shamsi highlighted her direct communication with residents, starting her campaign outreach two days ago with the launch of her first campaign video on Instagram, showcasing her professional and academic experience, along with her past work accomplishments.

She underlined the completion of her election programme, which she has been sharing during her meetings with residents. The programme will also be distributed at the headquarters upon its official opening on Friday.

Meanwhile, Al Manaei confirmed his plans to open his headquarters a few days before the election, focusing on direct communication with residents. He underlined the practicality and strength of his programme, centered around the Bahraini family. "I will be using social media platforms to share my ideas and key programme points," he said.

Besides, Al Sada announced his intention to open his headquarters at the start of next month, also planning a discussion forum at the headquarters. He highlighted his ongoing field visits and meetings with residents in Busaiteen to clarify his campaign objectives and the steps he intends to take if elected.

From her side, Bin Shams stated that she will open her headquarters next week, adding that she is currently finalising the location with relevant authorities. She outlined a comprehensive campaign plan, beginning with her declaration of candidacy, that includes direct communication with residents through field visits, smaller meetings, and visits to social gatherings in the area. She also highlighted the importance of listening to their needs and concerns while discussing her election program.

Bin Shams explained the preparation of two versions of her programme: a printed version for distribution to residents and an electronic version for online platforms and the campaign website, ensuring accessibility and sharing among the community. Her programme focuses on combating unemployment, supporting the national economy, empowering Bahraini women, improving healthcare services, caring for senior citizens, developing education, and addressing housing issues.

Additionally, Qarata confirmed his plans to open his headquarters in Busaiteen on Wednesday, August 28th, highlighting his continuous and diligent communication with residents of the constituency.

"I organised of a series of open meetings with voters to discuss the programme and gather feedback, ensuring information reaches everyone. I prepared an electronic version of my programme, available on a dedicated link," he said.

Qarata outlined his future steps, including explaining his programme and offering solutions to community challenges through further open meetings with residents, listening to their feedback and demands.