Citizens who have registered for the upcoming Central Municipal Council (CMC) elections want the potential candidates to adopt realistic programmes and not make exaggerated promises.
Speaking to local Arabic daily Arrayah recently, a number of Qatari citizens stressed that they are aware of the CMC members' consultative role, which includes following up on the status of different projects in their constituencies and make relevant recommendations to improve services and utilities offered to inhabitants of the country.
Accordingly, they pointed out that the new CMC members should maintain constant and close communication with the residents of their constituencies and discuss their needs and views regarding public services.
Mohamed Saeed al-Kuwari, a resident of the Simaisma area (constituency 25), said he hopes that public projects and suggestions in this regard are studied carefully, taking into consideration the need for development projects to be expedited in order to respond to the aspirations of people living there.
Abdulrahman al-Majid, from constituency 8, said voters often elect a candidate based on his/her campaign programme and promises to the people. In this regard, he felt that such programmes and promises should be relevant and within his/her jurisdiction. He also suggested that the members be given more authority to carry out their duties and respond to the expectations of the public.
Ali al-Rumaihi, from constituency 14, said the developments witnessed in his locality in Al Rayyan can be considered the outcome of close co-operation between the CMC member there, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) and the municipality.
Noting that the area needs more beautification works and upgrade of public services, he expressed his appreciation for - and pride in - the keenness of the State in involving citizens in the direct election of CMC members as well as Shura Council members. He said people have to be careful while voting for a certain person and should place competence above other considerations to ensure efficiency.
Hassan al-Malki, from constituency 20, suggested that CMC members have a panel of consultants, including engineers, administrative officials and other experts so that they can brief them on the necessary technical aspects of infrastructure and public services development.
He also considered the CMC member as the link between the authorities concerned and the people.
Nayyaf al-Yafeai said CMC members should have active accounts on social media so that people can easily reach out to them while the members can effectively respond to their demands regarding development. He also stressed that the upcoming CMC members should enjoy excellent relations with the authorities and departments concerned to be able to follow up on public demands.
The CMC elections will be held on June 22.