Sharjah council elects first ever female chairwoman

SHARJAH // The Sharjah Consultative Council has elected its first female leader.

On Thursday, during the opening session of this year’s council, Khawla Al Mulla was appointed the first chairwoman of the body since its formation in 1999.

The motion to appoint her was unopposed by the 44-members council, seven of whom are women.

Hamad Ejtebi was elected deputy chairman.

Ms Al Mulla, who also serves as director of the Sharjah Family Development Centre, said it was an honour to take the position.

“It is a testament to the keenness of the people of Sharjah to empower all segments of society, especially women, to highlight their leading role in serving the country and the emirate,” she said.

Colleagues expressed pride at the appointment.

Fatima Al Muhairi, the only woman to win her seat by election rather than appointment, said: “Khawla is without a doubt a very qualified person for this position. She is a hard worker and well known for her accomplishments over the years.”

Azraa Al Riyami, the appointed member for Dibba Al Hosn, said that Ms Al Mulla’s selection was a great step for women in Sharjah.

“It was a great day – the first session in the council and we have a female chairperson.

“This will show that the country’s women are capable of giving and contributing in building our country and their respective emirates.”

Ayesha Al Bairaq, the member for Kalba, was proud to be a witness to the historic day.

“It is a great day to be a woman,” she said. “Heading the Sharjah Consultative Council is a proof of how much women can do and is a testament that we can work hand in hand with our brothers to benefit the community.”

Ayman Barut, also from Kabla, agreed.

“Today’s election shows the importance of women in the council,” he said. “It empowers women to take effective and leading roles in our emirate and in the country.”

In January, the country’s first elections for a local body took place to elect half of the 42 members, while the remaining were appointed Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah.

After the new list of elected members was announced, Dr Sheikh Sultan issued a decree and amended a law this month to increase the number of members of the consultative council to 44.

tzriqat@thenational.ae