UAE

FNC elections: Higher turnout seen on Day 2 of balloting

FNC elections October 5, 2023 Day 2
A female voter with a toddler is seen being escorted towards a polling station at the Abu Dhabi Energy Centre on Day 2 of the Federal National Council (FNC) elections on October 5, 2023.
Image Credit: Abdulla Rasheed | Gulf News

Abu Dhabi: The Federal National Council (FNC) elections entered the second day with a surge in voter participation. In Abu Dhabi, citizens were seen continuing to flock to polling centres across the emirate to select representatives for the 18th legislative term.  

Since the opening of election headquarters, electors have been actively exercising their voting rights, in a process that has been both smooth and orderly. Importantly, there have been no reported complaints at any of the three voting centres in Abu Dhabi, demonstrating a peaceful and well-organised electoral process.

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Notably, the three primary polling centers, located at the Energy Centre in Abu Dhabi City, conference centers in Al Ain, and a wedding hall in the Al Dhafra region, have witnessed a remarkable increase in turnout compared to the first day of voting, suggesting the electorate’s enthusiasm to participate in shaping the future of their emirate.

Thurday’s voter turnout has surpassed Wednesday’s figures, said officials.

Hybrid voting

To accommodate the diverse needs of voters, remote voting will continue today, October 5 (Thursday), with the same option available on Friday, October 6, from 9 am to 6 pm.

Furthermore, online voting will be accessible for a full 24 hours on Friday, offering flexibility for those who cannot vote in person.

FNC elections October 5, 2023 Day 2
A scene at the entrance of the Abu Dhabi Energy Centre, showing Emirati voters making their way to polling booths to case teir ballots on Day 2 of the Federal National Council (FNC) elections on October 5, 2023.

With Saturday, October 7, set as the final day for voting, there is still time for citizens to make their voices heard and contribute to the selection of their representatives in the Federal National Council. 

Significant step

The FNC elections mark a significant step in the UAE’s ongoing commitment to promote political engagement and empower its citizens to play an active role in shaping the nation’s policies.

FNC elections October 5, 2023 Day 2
Voters go to polling booths on Day 2 of the UAE Federal National Elections on Thursday, October 5, 2023.
Image Credit: Abdulla Rasheed

This year’s electoral journey commenced with the opening of candidate nominations on August 7. Candidates registered for the elections between August 15 and 18. Anticipated preliminary election results are scheduled to be unveiled on October 7.

The culmination of the electoral process will be the announcement of the definitive list of winners on October 13.

FNC elections October 5, 2023 Day 2
Election committee officials attending to voters on Day 2 of the Federal National Council (FNC) elections at Abu Dhabi Energy Centre on October 5, 2023.

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