JEDDAH: Many prospective candidates running for seats on the country’s municipal councils have been using Twitter to boost their election campaigns.

Many have been using religious expressions in their messages, such as “In the name of God,” and “If He wills it.” Some tweeters regarded the use of these words as a type of oath, which committed these candidates to serving the nation, a local publication reported recently.

Others used Twitter to start debates about the roles of municipal councils in the past and their importance in terms of the country’s development. Some of the questions and debates revolved around delayed municipal projects, and the development of services and the other public facilities.

It appeared they were aiming to boost their public profile. These debates resulted in a great deal of questions from people and saw these candidates gain many new followers.

Some candidates even asked their followers to suggest solutions and proposals on the projects and services needed in their constituencies.

Others opted to post their views on the importance of the youth in the country’s development, and the need to educate women on election processes.