People’s choice : Qarata completes stunning comeback win against Al Shaikh in closely-fought Muharraq runoff
TDT | Manama
The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com
Email: anchalo@newsofbahrain.com
Abdulwahid Qarata pulled off an unexpected win in Muharraq’s parliamentary runoff, narrowly defeating Ebrahim Al Shaikh in a contest that captivated the district. Garnering 53% of the vote — equivalent to 3,393 ballots — Qarata’s victory was hard-fought after an initial stumble in the first round. Al Shaikh had emerged as the frontrunner with 30.7% in the first round, while Qarata trailed behind with 22.3%.
The remaining votes were spread across five other contenders, but it quickly became clear that the showdown would be between the two. Over the next three weeks, Qarata, a 35-year-old member of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, mobilised his supporters, gaining the momentum needed to close the gap. This election was triggered when the Court of Cassation disqualified MP Mohammed Rafiq Al Hussaini over dual citizenship, leading to a race involving seven independent candidates.
Turnout
Of the 11,900 eligible voters, turnout dipped slightly during the runoff. Reflecting on the election, Councillor Nawaf Hamza praised the orderly nature of the proceedings, noting the calm atmosphere at polling stations. “Turnout was steady across all three locations,” he said, also recognising the media’s role in maintaining transparency throughout the process. Minister Adel Al Mawwda similarly lauded the afternoon surge in voters and commended the press for its impartial reporting.
Monitors
Three human rights organisations — the Bahrain Human Rights Society, Bahrain Transparency Society, and the National Institution for Human Rights — closely monitored the election. Wadhah Al Absi, of the Bahrain Human Rights Society, in comments to The Daily Tribune, mentioned minor irregularities, such as campaign activity near polling stations and the presence of children in the voting areas. Nevertheless, these issues had little impact on the final result. To accommodate voters, additional polling booths were set up at Bahrain International Airport and Seef Mall, alongside the primary station at Busaiteen School.
Gratitude
In his victory speech, Qarata expressed gratitude to his supporters, family, and friends, commending them for enduring the sweltering heat and logistical challenges to back his campaign. He praised his campaign team for their efforts in the face of what he described as smear campaigns, asserting that their hard work had ultimately secured his success. One voter, Nada Ali, shared her experience with The Daily Tribune: “The organisers were very helpful with the elderly. With fewer people this time, everything went more smoothly.”
Related Posts