Qatar reports high turnout in referendum on cancelling legislative polls

By Ibrahim al-Khazen

ISTANBUL (AA) – Qatari authorities reported a high turnout in a referendum on constitutional changes that would scrap national council elections.

The Interior Ministry said that 51% of eligible voters turned out to cast their ballot by 11.00 am (0800GMT) on Tuesday.

Voting will end at 07.00 pm (1600GMT) and results are expected on Wednesday.

The state television said that voter turnout is expected to reach 80% by the end of the day.

The proposed amendments include an end to the election for two-thirds of the 45-seat Shura Council, an advisory body that drafts laws and approves state budgets.

If approved, all members of the council will be appointed by Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

Interior Minister Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani said the amendments aim to “strengthen national unity, consolidate the principle of justice and the rule of law, and achieve the country's supreme interest,” according to the state news agency QNA.

Tuesday’s constitutional vote is the second in the Gulf country’s history. It held a constitutional referendum in 2003.

*Writing by Ahmed Asmar