The announcement of the list of candidates for the tenth term of the Majlis Ash'shura signals the beginning of the next four-year session. There are 883 candidates running for the council seats, including 33 women, compared with 637 candidates in the ninth session, a significant increase of 245 candidates.
This participation and engagement are the most important pillars of the State’s decision making, as well as one of the correct paths that we must take in answering any demands or enhancing the consultative work in the country. This necessitates a proactive contribution to rendering this experiment a success through enhancing sound participation and proper selection of candidates. Such civil experiences are built and advanced by the society and citizens in particular when they make precise and correct choices, which requires a keen attention in the coming period.
Undoubtedly, the Sultanate of Oman's democratic experience is gradually advancing based on the evolution of society and national and global factors, and on many fronts represented by numerous civil society organisations. Our experience is better than that of neighbouring countries. However, some individuals make judgements that undermine the development of their own national experiences by adopting non-scientific criteria and comparisons that are lacking crucial elements that should be taken into account.
At the Shura, municipality, the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, clubs, organisations, syndicates, and other forums the public is involved in decision-making. Such participation is growing gradually, reflecting the favourable climate for participation provide by the State. However, the success or failure of this engagement is determined first and foremost by the voter's selection of the right candidate.
We cannot improve any democratic experience until we improve the selection process. When individuals improve their engagement in elections, democratic experiences will naturally increase and evolve, and vice versa. We must also keep in mind that Shura is a legislative and oversight body that works to issue frameworks and legislation. Such frameworks and legislation is the engine of life and the effective tool for running the country's affairs.
The Shura's most significant task is to enhance such a legislative process. Actually, we do not ask the Shura members for anything other than achieving the council's aims and terms of reference. There is a municipal council that plays a different role in furthering developmental and municipal work, particularly in the wilayats, in accordance with the plans that have been established. As we are approaching the elections, it is important to emphasise that the person who deserves to be elected to the Shura is the one who possesses the power of reasoning and good manners. S/he should also be capable of carrying out all responsibilities and ready to bear the pain and anguish of public service.
The voters should vote for efficient persons, regardless of tribe, wilayat, or governorate. Candidates fiercely campaign to win the confidence of people to reach the council. However, there are individuals who are more worthy of representation and the responsibilities that come with it. This is something we must remember: we are the ones who choose the members of the council, and we must bear the consequences of our actions. We hope that we will witness perfect elections in every manner, and to eventually welcome distinguished council members who, within the confines of this institutional framework, perform exemplary parliamentary work that genuinely improves our democratic experience.
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