ABU DHABI // With a copy of the Dubai Ruler’s latest book in hand, Marwan bin Ghalita has worked to remind the Government what is expected.
While reading aloud passages from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid’s book Flashes of Thought and the country’s 2021 vision in the FNC, Mr bin Ghalita has laid out a work map for the UAE and expects the Government to follow by providing nationals with a high standard of living.
With Emiratisation issues at the top of his agenda during the 2011 elections, Mr bin Ghalita has made several inquires on the matter, demanding better efforts.
Although last year was known as the Year of Emiratisation, he said the only noticeable progress was in companies pledging to take part, but not acting.
He has also called for the Emiratisation of imams and muezzins.
Mr bin Ghalita has used his strong business background to inquire about aid to owners of small and medium enterprises, and questioned the Minister of Economy, Sultan Al Mansouri, about the ministry’s efforts to monitor economic activity in the country’s free zones.
A popular member, Mr bin Ghalita has more than 13,000 followers on Twitter and can often be found debating council issues on social media and in the majlis.
He was one of a handful of Dubai members who took the time to meet members of the public, setting up regular meetings. After discussing the need to lower the price of petrol at the FNC, Mr bin Ghalita took the debate to the internet, asking Emiratis to share their thoughts. He has also asked for compulsory health exams for all residents, something that has since happened.
As the chairman of Al Nasr club, Mr bin Ghalita was involved in discussions over a bill concerning the safety of sports stadiums and questioned the need for foreign players on local teams.
Mr bin Ghalita has also made daring requests in the council, asking about visa-free travel and granting citizenship to children of Emirati mothers, both concerns raised by members of the public.
osalem@thenational.ae