AJMAN // Authorities were receiving campaign programmes yesterday from different candidates, said Saeed Saif Al Matroushi, the director of the Federal National Council Ajman.
"Most candidates would be using billboards on roads," he said. "A number of them have also asked to use television, radios and internet and we have accepted all their requests."
MORE ON THE FNC ELECTIONS
COMMENT: FNC election gives the public a voice in future change This month's FNC elections are another step in the development of a new social contract in the UAE. Read article
Tweets mark start of FNC race FNC candidates begin their campaigns for election this week, with social media set to play as big a role as more traditional canvassing. Read article
Small emirates show a big interest in election The emirate with the second smallest electoral college had the highest percentage of candidate registration in the UAE. Read article
Some candidates have joined Twitter and Facebook in an effort to communicate with voters.
Saeed Al Shamsi posted on Facebook that his decision to run was an act of patriotism and an act of faith.
He quoted a Quranic verse that stipulates "whose rule in all matters of common concern is consultation among themselves".
Posters were up yesterday on roads in Nuaimiya, Rashidiya, Sawan, Jurf and Humaidiya, among other areas.
Dr Abdullah Hamad Al Shamsi, the former director general of Ajman police, has also announced his candidacy.
"I recently got my doctorate degree in community studies and I'm looking forward to serving my community more with adequate knowledge starting from this election," he said.
Aisha Al Matroushi said she was looking forward to participating in the country's democratisation.
"I am in the race to represent the cause of women," she said. "I believe women should participate in this political process as well as men are participating."
Eissa Abdul Kareem, a government employee, said the love of his country had inspired him to participate.
"This country is witnessing a lot of changes - mostly development," he said. "I want to be part of the democratisation and development process of Ajman."
Ibrahim Mahmoud Al Awadh said he wanted to be a voice for his people.
"I will want to tell all peoples' concerns as they are, and have them addressed," he said. "From medicines and good services in hospitals to a good education and job opportunities for Emiratis."
osalem@thenational.ae