Civil society groups and academic institutions are organising several public debates in the capital this week to raise awareness of parliamentary candidates’ positions.
“Such debates offer a platform for all members of society to learn about the candidates and their agendas. People have the opportunity to ask candidates specific questions to see what they suggest as solutions to certain problems,” said Sami Hourani, founder and director of the NGO Leaders of Tomorrow, which organised a series of two debates called the “Diwanieh” initiative.
The initiative is meant to bring political discussions to the public sphere, and included one debate on Sunday evening and another on Tuesday among candidates vying for seats through the national proportional list system, according to Hourani.
“Representatives of five national lists are participating in the debates, as well as experts in health, education, law, economy and energy,” he added.
“We sent an invitation to all [61] national lists to participate. We opened participation for all and are not being exclusive, but the participating lists are the only ones who responded.”
The first Diwanieh debate took place on Sunday and the second is due to take place on Tuesday at 6:30pm at the Ras Al Ain Gallery, Hourani said.
The Middle East University (MEU) is also organising a debate series for candidates, politicians, students and media personnel.
The MEU debates, which will be held at 12:30pm on Monday and Wednesday, aim to offer a platform for candidates to “share their views and their lists’ stands on national issues”, according to a statement issued by the university.
Areej Abuqudairi
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