KUWAIT: Polling stations witnessed a good turnout on Thursday, as citizens lined up in front of centers before the start of the electoral process. Kuwait Times spoke with citizens in several electoral districts to find out their aspirations and hopes for the new parliament. Citizen Adel Al-Otaibi expressed satisfaction with the voter turnout, highlighting increasing awareness among Kuwaiti citizens. He emphasized the significance of active participation in the elections. “The high turnout is a message to every corrupt person who wants to deprive the people of the usefulness of the National Assembly so that he can freely corrupt himself without accountability,” he said.

Bibi Al-Haddad confirmed that citizens have increased awareness and have responded to the speech of HH the Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, in which he called on the Kuwaiti people to go out and exercise their constitutional right and not fail to do so. Fahd Al-Fayez praised the efficiency and organization of the voting process this year, noting that it only took him five minutes to cast his vote. He commended the smooth coordination of the election procedures, highlighting the notable turnout evidenced by the fullness of the ballot boxes. Fayez viewed this as a positive sign, indicative of widespread participation in the electoral process, praying for continued security, safety and stability in the country.

Regarding women’s participation in the elections, Asmaa Al-Hudayri said turnout among female citizens was good, even though women are reluctant to participate because women in the previous parliament did not have many seats. “We hope the actions of the previous parliament will change and that the National Assembly will be reformist, particularly in light of the challenges arising from disagreements between appointed governments and elected parliaments, which have led to disruptions in decision making across the country,” she said.

Voters confirmed that their participation in the elections comes out of concern to elect the best representatives who will be keen to convey their demands to the government, legislate laws that improve the lives of citizens, defend their rights and put the interest of Kuwait and its people above all.

Sarah Al-Khalidi (correctly) anticipated the election of only one woman in the elections, saying she demonstrated in the previous parliament her ability to provide a wonderful performance and perhaps will enjoy the support of a large segment of society. She attributed this potential support to her close alignment with the concerns of citizens, her boldness in addressing them and her ability to articulate them with grace and strength. She expects the new parliament to be balanced.

Despite feelings of frustration, Talal Al-Salman affirmed his commitment to casting his vote, emphasizing the significance of exercising his civic duty. He indicated that participating in the electoral process is the only means through which he can voice his opinions and concerns, highlighting the importance of active engagement in the democratic process, even amidst challenges or discontentment. “I have to participate, even though I do not expect the new parliament to adopt major human rights issues. But we must try to protect democracy,” he said.