Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Saudi Arabia: 3 women among 44 candidates running in RCCI board elections

RIYADH: Three businesswomen and 41 businessmen have filed nominations for the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) elections on Nov. 11 and 12. Eighteen seats on the RCCI’s board of directors are up for grabs, with elections being held for 12 seats.

The three women — Amal Badruldeen, owner and managing director of Al-Areebah Clinics and Establishment for Health Education, Huda Al-Jeraisy, owner of Al-Areebah Age Center for Training and Development, and Basima Al-Qashmah, owner of Kinda for Commercial Advertising — submitted their nominations a day before the closing date.

The women hope to gain places by winning votes. They also hope some of them would be picked up for the six seats to be filled by appointment by the minister of commerce.

As part of their election manifesto, the three businesswomen wish to present the voice of Saudi businesswomen. Their goals include developing the private education sector, raising health awareness and easing the acquisition of business licenses.

“I believe actions speak louder than words,” said Badruldeen, who is optimistic of winning the election. She added that successful businesswomen need the support of businessmen who understand women’s need. “Even if I do not win, and that is all in the hands of God, I will be proud to have paved the path for others,” she added.

In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper, Al-Qashmah said she is looking forward to joining the RCCI board to contribute in improving the private educational system, something that is at the top of her manifesto.

Al-Jeraisy, who is also the chairperson of the executive board of the RCCI women’s branch, said she is concerned for the interests of both businessmen and businesswomen. She added that she wishes to see women awarded business licenses without any restrictions.

Meanwhile, many businesswomen say they were unable to file their nominations on time. Others said they were reluctant as they also have family commitments in addition to their normal business commitments.

-- Arab News

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