RIYADH: “Building a nation is not based on the sense of sight, but on the mind.” This is the belief of Salman Al-Shehri, who is blind, as he stands as a candidate in the Dec. 12 elections for a place on the Riyadh municipal council.

Al-Shehri described Riyadh as his “beloved capital” and wants to do “everything in my power to make it the beautiful garden it is, and a global destination that reflects development, prosperity and revitalization,” according to a report in an online publication on Thursday.

Al-Shehri said that he wants to ensure that the capital has facilities suitable for people with disabilities, which would allow them to engage in various activities. There should also be better services provided at government offices and adequate housing for them, he was quoted as saying.

However, he said that he not only wishes to serve those with special needs but also able-bodied people, to ensure that they are part of decision-making at the local level.

Al-Shehri said it was vital for municipal councils to operate in a transparent manner and ensure effective communication with citizens through various platforms. He said there must be some way found to communicate on social media with people with visual disabilities, apart from using Braille for other messages.

He said that it would not be difficult for blind people to make their presence felt on municipal councils, and ensure an effective contribution to development with their skills.

The upcoming elections would see 284 councils set up with 3,159 members, two-thirds or 2,106 elected, with one-third appointed by the minister of municipal and rural affairs, on condition that each council not exceed 30 members.