FUJAIRAH // Ahmed Al Hafeiti was outside Fujairah Chamber of Industry and Commerce at 7.30am on Sunday to make his candidacy for the Federal National Council known.
Thirteen people registered on the opening day, although about 11,000 residents in Fujairah are eligible to take part.
Mr Al Hafeiti said serving the country and the people is everyone’s duty and responsibility.
“Whoever feels that he or she is qualified to accomplish this goal, should apply and register,” said the 49-year-old deputy chief executive at Al Sharq Hospital.
He said he looked forward to being part of the FNC, if elected, and would be the voice of Fujairah residents.
“The country’s wise leadership and the way they focus on the human being issues has encouraged me to take part and support the community and the nation,” he added.
Brig Mohammed Al Kaabi, chairman of Fujairah Elections Committee, said the General Headquarters of Fujairah Police assisted his officials and the candidates by issuing certificates of good conduct on the spot.
“The turnout was good for the first day. People came from all parts of the emirate to participate and we expect more in the days ahead,” he said.
Ras Al Khaimah registered 14 candidates. There, school principal Badriya Al Shahhi broke ground as the first woman to participate in RAK’s FNC elections in 2015.
“I’m here today to fulfil my desire and be part of my country’s success and development,” said Ms Al Shahhi, 48, who has worked in education for 25 years.
“My family and friends encouraged me to register in the elections and I look forward to representing women and to be the voice of the community with the help and support of that community,” she added.
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More on the FNC candidacy registration from the rest of the emirates:
› Gargash confident of high voter turnout, despite slow start in Abu Dhabi
› Women's voice strong in Ajman and Umm Al Quwain
› Diversity shines through in Sharjah electoral registrations
› Gargash applauds 'encouraging' female turnout for FNC candidacy registration
› Retired Army colonel hopes to improve Al Ain public schooling through FNC candidacy