Campaign pointers for FNC candidates

Federal National Council candidates take part in a workshop at Abu Dhabi Women’s College – Higher Colleges of Technology in the Saadiyat Island. Christopher Pike / The National

ABU DHABI // Strong local knowledge and realistic promises are crucial in a successful campaign, candidates for the FNC polls were told on Wednesday.

A workshop was held at the Higher Colleges of Technology to pass on successful strategies for attracting voters, after the final list of 341 candidates was released on Monday by the National Election Committee.

“Exaggerated promises to the voters is one factor that leads to a poor turnout during the elections period, and previous experiences have proved that,” Dr Mohammed Al Mazrouie, secretary general of the FNC, told those gathered.

“Members of the public realise they are unrealistic promises and that reflects negatively in a candidate’s credibility.”

Candidates should use their campaigns to explain “the council’s nature and its power under the constitution”, Dr Al Mazrouie said.

Ali Mousa, a technical adviser from the Secretariat Office of the FNC, reminded the audience to thoroughly read the constitution for an understanding of how it relates to the issues they wish to tackle.

“You must know what it means to discuss laws and legislation, what are the questions asked and what a regulatory body’s role is,” Mr Mousa said.

“You must be aware of the public and the main purpose of your campaign should be having enough knowledge about your duties and the ability to work within them.

“The voter doesn’t think of the elections with a political motive. The last thing he thinks about is politics. The voter is thinking of personal and public gains, so concentrate on what interests the voter.”

He urged candidates not to “propose solutions to issues that authorities and entities have been working on”.

“The people know it is not logical. Focus on communicating with the people. Your treatment of the voters will ensure your vote.”

Mr Mousa said the candidates’ strongest point was that they were members of the community.

“You meet people in majlises and mosques, you listen to their complaints and that is how you know what issues need discussing,” he said.

“Your campaign should be personal. Call the people and mingle with them, share their sadness and celebrations.”

Every candidate should think about what they can bring to the council, Mr Mousa said.

“It is important to know your weaknesses and strengths. You must have a characteristic that show you are ready to become a member at the council. A good reputation and accomplishments are also important,” he said.

Leaning how to get messages across in the media was also a skill to be learnt, said Mr Mousa.

Workshops for candidates from other emirates will be held next week.

Campaigning for the elections officially begins on Sunday, with the polls taking place at various centres across the country on October 3.