Doha, Qatar: Qatari citizens participated in the referendum yesterday with marked enthusiasm. They began gathering in different locations to vote via electronic and paper voting systems as soon as voting began at 7 a.m.

Voting took place in 28 referendum commissions tasked with voting on the draft constitutional amendments of 2024. The call to participate in the voting process received a massive response from men and women.

They welcomed the general provisions and the smooth running of the referendum on the constitutional amendments. Citizens appreciated the efforts of all authorities concerned, notably the Ministry of Interior and the General Referendum Committee, for the facilities provided to those arriving at the designated places to vote.

They also praised the General Referendum Committee for providing fantastic arrangements and multiple options for the referendum process. The committee provided 28 paper and electronic voting centers as well as Metrash2 to facilitate citizens’ voting.

Citizens said participating in this historic event is a “national duty” in response to Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani’s call for all citizens to participate in the general referendum on the draft constitutional amendments.

Speaking to The Peninsula after voting at the Villaggio Mall referendum committee, Hamid Al Qahtani praised the provisions of the referendum process. He said the referendum on the draft constitutional amendments would serve the interests of the Qatari people and the country.

“We, the citizens, are very excited to participate in the referendum responding to the call of HH the Amir,” said Al Qahtani, adding that the citizens are aware of the importance of this process.

Citizens aged 18 and above headed to polling stations yesterday to exercise their right to vote in the referendum on the proposed 2024 constitutional amendments to the permanent constitution of the State of Qatar.

The referendum was held in accordance with Decree No. 87 of 2024, reincarnating one of the forms of solidarity between the people of Qatar and their ruler while emphasizing the deep-rooted belief in the importance of national unity, cohesion social and determination to defend the country. cherished inherited values ​​and enduring national principles.

Citizens gathered in large numbers at Lagoona Mall, one of the e-polling stations, to perform their national duty without any problem.

Speaking to The Peninsula after his vote, Abdullah Jassim Al Darwish said: “I currently live in The Pearl and came to Lagoona Mall because of its proximity and easy access.

“I just voted, and it was very quick and easy. I am very happy about this whole experience, as well as the importance of the vote. Thanks for your coverage. I look forward to positive results. Also speaking at the same venue, Abdulrahman Al Baqer said: “I participated in today’s vote and I am very happy with these changes proposed by HH the Amir. Yes, I’m looking forward to all these changes.

Another venue that saw an impressive turnout was the Katara Cultural Village center (Galeries Lafayette). Here, citizens could be seen coming and going as they voted. The open-air venue was made more impressive by Katara’s beautiful scenery, adding more appeal to the exercise.

Speaking exclusively to The Peninsula, Director General of Katara, Professor Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, praised the successful organization of the exercise, which was conducted smoothly and stress-free.

“First of all, I would like to thank the Amir H.H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, for giving his people the opportunity to vote on some of the amendments to the constitutional articles. Secondly, I would also like to thank the Ministry of Interior for giving the chance to people who cannot physically travel to the various locations by allowing them to do the same through Metrash2. Metrash2 is well organized, well placed and well developed, and the Ministry of Interior is up to date with all the applications it uses.

According to him, the amendments to the constitutional articles will help all Qataris to be united and together, which will also be reflected in the development of Qatar.

“We are satisfied with the smooth running of the referendum. Allah willing, Qatar will continue its journey towards greater progress and prosperity under wise leadership,” said a Qatari citizen in an interview with The Peninsula.

Many arrangements have been made everywhere, particularly for people with special needs and the elderly. Women were also seen actively participating in the referendum in several places.

The 15th Electronic Referendum Committee in Barahat Msheireb witnessed enthusiastic participation of voters, who gathered to vote in the general referendum on the draft constitutional amendments to the Permanent Constitution of the State of Qatar.

Abdulrahman, a Qatari citizen, said: “He is proud of the leadership of the country and feels happy to exercise his national right. The high voter turnout reflects citizens’ awareness of the country’s plans, as they recognize the importance of their vote in shaping Qatar’s future and promoting the development process.

Another voter, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: “I support the constitutional amendments. The wise leaders saw the need to amend certain articles of the Constitution in accordance with the needs of the country and society and its development in order to strengthen cohesion among members of society and enable all segments of society to participate in public affairs, to protect rights and affirm national unity.