Council looking for candidates

Five members of the Manama Municipal Council will not contest the forthcoming elections. “Chairman Murtada Bader, technical committee member Sayed Yousif Hashim and heads of old houses rehabilitation committee Syed Jameel Khadhem, of public relations Mohammed Abdullah Mansoor, and of financial and legal committee Majeed Milad have decided not to contest the elections,” council secretary Jasim Redha said yesterday. “The council is looking for suitable candidates to replace the outgoing members. But it is a difficult task. Councillors do not enjoy much benefits or rewards. There is no pension fund or car and telephone allowances, for example. They also have to contribute a lot from their salaries for their retirement and pension. Besides, members should always contribute to charity funds and other activities every month. It is difficult to find qualified people. “We have started registration for candidates. We are also receiving and reviewing applications and papers from a number of people seeking to work at the council. The council is publishing a manual highlighting our strategy. It will serve as an election programme for our candidates,” Redha said. The council has 22 seats and hopes two or three seats might be added.