Qatar Launches First Parliamentary Elections in Country's History

In a historic first, polling stations have opened in Qatar. The elections for the Majlis ash-Shura (a consultative council with parliamentary functions) are taking place across 30 electoral districts in the country. This was reported by RIA Novosti.

A total of 284 candidates, 10 percent of whom are women, are vying for 30 seats. The number of voters stands at approximately 300,000.

This day is significant for the people of Qatar as it marks the occurrence of direct elections. The consultative council was established in Qatar in 1972 by Emir Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani and initially consisted of 20 members appointed by the head of state.