Voters in Busaiteen Turn Out for By-Election After MP's Disqualification
TDT | Manama
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Polling in Muharraq’s First Constituency (Busaiteen) kicked off this morning, with residents coming out to elect a new MP, where seven independent hopefuls are vying for the seat, This followed the removal of Mohammed Rafiq Al Hussaini from office due to an undisclosed foreign citizenship, as ruled by the Court of Cassation on 10 July.
Voting began under the watchful eyes of observers, with the chairman of the supervisory committee ensuring transparency by showing that the ballot boxes were empty before sealing them and allowing the process to begin.
“A steady stream of voters at the Busaiteen polling station and commented on the strong participation. People of all ages came to cast their votes, with a notable number of women among them.” Judge Mohammed Al Rumaihi observed.
What stood out were the small tents erected near the polling station, where one candidate resorted to rallying supporters with the rather loud accompaniment of horns to drum up votes.
Representatives from Bahrain Transparency Society and the National Institution for Human Rights (NIHR) were on hand to monitor proceedings.
Dr Hooriya Al Dairi, speaking for NIHR, mentioned that ten members of the institution were monitoring to ensure that no undue pressure was exerted on any candidates. “NIHR had a physical presence at both the main and public polling stations.” She noted
Measures to assist people with disabilities were also put in place, including providing wheelchairs and helping those with poor eyesight. Dr Al Dairi also emphasised the importance of verifying the identity of women wearing the niqab in a discreet manner.
Layla Ibrahim, a retired health worker, praised the voting process spoke with TDT “It was efficient and particularly considerate of older voters.“ she said
She expressed her appreciation for the efforts made by the supervisory committee to ensure accessibility.
Speaking to TDT, candidate Qarata expressed gratitude to the supervisory committee for ensuring a smooth election. He was pleased with the turnout and thanked the voters for their participation, which he said showed their desire for a representative who truly speaks for them. Commenting on his choice of the colour red, “it symbolised Bahrain’s flag, reflecting the importance of patriotism in my campaign.“ he noted
He also shared his confidence in his electoral programme’s ability to secure a seat in Parliament.
Public polling stations at Seef Mall and Bahrain International Airport saw a relatively modest turnout.
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