AMIR H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, while opening the 49th session of the Shura Council on Tuesday, announced that the country will hold its first elections for the Shura Council in October next year. These elections will take place in accordance with the nation’s Constitution promulgated in 2004, following a referendum on it the previous year. As per the Constitution, the council will consist of 45 members — 30 elected and 15 appointed. Though details about the eligibility to contest and vote, or the conduct of elections have not been issued yet, Qatar will become one of only a handful countries in the region to have elected legislatures. This will also ensure wider participation of citizens in the legislative process and will strengthen the traditions of Qatari Shura. The country has had an elected municipal council since the 1990s. Qatar has an established system of governance which is rooted in the structure of community and connected with the people, and as H H the Amir said election are not about the nation’s identity. “This identity has crystallised over time and best manifested in the form of solidarity and cohesion of our community with its forbearing moral values and love for its country, as revealed in challenging the blockade.” Qatar’s announcement to hold elections has been widely welcomed and lauded by the UN, civil society, the public, as well as several countries. Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres welcomed the announcement and encouraged the elections to Shura Council. The UN chief, his spokesperson said, understands that preparations are under way and that the Government of the State of Qatar will take all necessary measures to allow for inclusive, participatory elections. The Cabinet has also welcomed the announcement to hold Shura Council elections, saying it represents a qualitative and historic leap in the country’s development. Speaker of the Shura Council H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud said the announcement to hold elections is a an achievement, an extension of the Shura process and an enhancement of popular participation in decision-making in a way that supports the development process in the State and enhances Its security and stability. He said the State seeks, through a third of appointed members, to benefit from cadres with experience and knowledge, whether men or women. The Speaker said that Shura Council in its current session will also discuss laws related to the conduct of elections, electoral districts and other related issues.
