MUSCAT: Polling per cent in the 10th Majlis Ash’shura election touched 65.88 per cent, a huge jump from 49 per cent in 2019, on the back of smooth app-based voting on Sunday.
As many as 843 candidates, among them 32 women, contested for 90 seats.
The voters used Intakhib (Elect) mobile app during the elections process, which began at 8 am and ended at 7 pm.
The Majlis Ash’shura’s 10th Term Elections saw the participation of 753,260 registered voters, among them 13,843 who already cast their ballots abroad.
The 10th Term elections process stands apart as the first instance in utilising the improved, second version, of “Intakhib” electronic app, empowered with an audio reading feature and sign language to explain voting steps to the deaf and dumb on an optional basis.
The application also boasts a simple user interface and a high level of security, using the latest technologies in the field of encryption. Accordingly, a voter’s data is verified in three basic steps: First, photocopying the original ID card from both sides, then reading the personal card data via the Near Field Communication (NFC)technique, and snapping a personal photo of the voter.
The Ministry of Interior said that all related data and information will be available in full transparency, through broadcasting indicators and live coverage during voting day. It noted that, thanks to the digital transition that took place, the 10th Term Elections combine accuracy, transparency and speed in carrying out all electoral services.
The Majlis Ash’shura’s 10th Term constitute a step forward in Oman’s future plans, visions and approaches. It assumes significance domestically as a period that will witness more action towards the realisation of goals of Oman Vision 2040 in various economic, investment and development spheres. It will also enhance the implementation of the 10th Five Year Plan and chart out the tracks of the 11th Five Year Plan. — ONA
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