Four women candidates made history when they emerged victorious in the first-ever Municipal Council elections on Sunday. These representatives are now gearing up to serve the society in right earnest.
Shaima Ali Ibraheem al Raisiya from Bausher (346 votes), Sana Salim Hilal al Mashriya from Amerat (409 votes), and Fatima Nasser Said al Sinaniya from Quriyat (786 votes) topped the candidates' list in their respective constituencies, while Moza Abdullah Mohammed al Hosniya (648 votes) polled the third highest votes in Khabourah.
For 30 year old Sana who emerged on top among 22 other candidates in Amerat constituency, this was a hard-fought victory. She said, "I will address issues related to different sections of the society. There are several issues concerning women, like setting up of educational centres in the wilayat.
"They have reposed faith in me and I need to address their problems as soon as possible."
After winning the election, she said, "I just froze in my place when the results were declared. The feeling can't be described in words. I was expecting to win but I never realised that I would top the candidates' list.
Sana said that she won because there was a desire among voters to give women a chance to serve the society.
Fatima, who topped 17 candidates in Quriyat, said, "Citizens in Quriyat are in need of several amenities like parks and hospitals. There is a need for specialised clinics in the wilayat. I dedicate my win to citizens of the country. I hope that the citizens' voice and mine will reach the government. I thank everyone who voted and supported me. I will take into account suggestions of opening educational and sports facilities for women in the wilayat."
She said that being a woman was not an obstacle and she had a lot of support from the youth. "I hope that this support will continue in future. I will do my best to prove my capability as a council representative."
Shaima, another winning candidate posted on a social networking website, "I have never made a promise before but I promise I will live up to your expectations. Trust mean greater responsibilities."
Moza, who came third in Khabourah, said, "My win is a victory for all women in Khabourah wilayat. The trust that voters have put in me is the secret of my victory."
She said that a meeting will be held with women in the wilayat. Moza said, "I will soon meet them to know their demands and prioritise them accordingly to take it up with the concerned authorities.
"I thank all of those who voted and supported me during elections and hopefully, I will live up to their expectations."
© Muscat Daily 2012
