Masouma Al Mubarak, one of the four women who made history in 2009 when she became the first woman to be elected to the Kuwaiti parliament, obtained 3,227 votes. Her votes gave her the fifth position out of 10 candidates representing the First Constituency in the 50-seat parliament.
Two other women Safa Al Hashim (2,622 votes in the Third Constituency) and Dhikra Al Rashidi (1,283 votes in the Fourth Constituency) are first-time MPs.
Shiite candidates secured 17 seats, their highest representation since parliament was established. In the 2009 parliament, they had nine MPs. There were eight winners in the First Constituency, three in the Second Constituency, two in the Third Constituency, one in the Fourth Constituency and three in the Fifth Constituency.
Urban centres are represented by 14 lawmakers and the tribes have 18 MPs.
Reports have emerged in Kuwait City that at least three MPs will be contesting for the position of Speaker and that two others, including Maasooma Al Mubarak are vying the post of deputy speaker.
Former speaker Jasem Al Khorafi said that the elections on December 1 heralded a new phase in Kuwait’s history.
“I hope that those elected will not be affected by the accusations levelled at them,” he said. “I also hope that the parliament will sit through its term and devote its time and energy to enact laws and monitor work in order to fulfil the people’s aspirations.”
