Qatar is gearing up for the first legislative elections in its history, in what analysts have called a step towards enhancing political participation for citizens in the Gulf state.
The October 2 polls will see Qatari citizens electing two-thirds of the 45-seat Shura Council, an advisory and legislative body that dates back to 1972 and is responsible for approving, rejecting and issuing general state policies and law proposals, as well as controlling the state budget. As per the country’s 2004 constitution, the emir will appoint the remaining 15 members.
Qatar’s first legislative polls: What to expect from Shura vote | Elections News | Al Jazeera