Middle-east Arab News Opinion | Asharq Al-awsat

UAE President: Elections first step in reform process | ASHARQ AL-AWSAT English Archive 2005 -2017
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Asharq al Awsat, Abu Dhabi- President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayid revealed on Friday that his decision to activate the role of the Federal National Council through the election of half its members was the first step in wide-ranging reforms. He also indicated that he would submit a proposal to the FNC recommending amendments to the country’s constitution.

Elaborating on the historic decision he announced on Thursday, Sheikh Khalifa said that it stipulates that the ruler of each of the seven UAE emirates will form a local council which will then elect half of the representatives of each emirate to the FNC with the other half appointed.

“The decision to introduce these reforms stems from the firm conviction of the UAE leadership on the importance of achieving wider and more effective participation of the citizens, men and women, in the building and development of the country so as to reinforce and protect the gains and achievements of their country”, the UAE President was quoted as saying by the Emirates news agency.