JEDDAH: Despite Najran’s proximity to the Yemeni border, residents are resuming their lives as usual and preparing to participate in the municipal elections.

There are nearly 12,000 voters, male and female, in Najran city. They are preparing to cast their votes for 61 candidates in the election, including three women, via 10 polling stations.

According to local news reports, the local committee for municipal elections in Najran has issued licenses for media campaigns to 113 candidates. More than 43,000 voters will head to 34 centers to select among 197 candidates competing for 70 seats in the municipal councils of Najran region, including Shrourah, Habouna, Yadma, Badr Al-Janoub, Al-Haseena, Khabash and Al-Wadea.

In the opinion of some voters, the selection of candidates depends primarily on the close relationship with candidate regardless of whether or not they are capable of carrying out their role as a council member. Others, however, said voting is based on the reputation of candidates, their experience and successful campaign, regardless of whether or not they are related or have personal connections to the candidate. Many voters also criticized the weakness of current campaign as compared to previous elections, which saw more creative campaigns and electoral programs.

One candidate running for the municipal council in Najran, who preferred anonymity, said: “My electoral program is concise and it targets all members of society in Najran because they are the decision makers in the electoral program and selection is based on competence and experience.”

Another candidate, a businessman who also preferred not to disclose his name, says the most important factors of success is compatibility between members, and the ultimate goal and mission of the council.