Muscat, Omani voters began casting their votes to elect their representatives for the membership of the Shura Council’s Tenth Term, as 843 candidates, among them 32 women, contest for 90 seats.
The voters use the "Intakhib" (Elect) electronic app during the election process, which begins at 8 a.m. and ends at 7 p.m.
The Shura Council’s Tenth Term Elections see the participation of 753,260 registered voters, among them 13,843 who have already cast their ballots abroad, according to Oman News Agency (ONA).
The 10th Term elections process stands apart as the first instance of utilizing the improved, second version, of the "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 reaffirmed its full preparedness for the elections at administrative, technical, and legal levels, as well as its readiness to provide press coverage of the event in coordination with the authorities concerned.
The ministry 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 Shura Council’s 10th Term constitutes 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 realization of the 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.
Source: Bahrain News Agency