Qatar begins election

Qataris have begun voting in the country’s first legislative elections for two-thirds of the advisory Shura Council.

Polls opened at 05:00 am and will close at 3:00 pm, with the results expected the same day.

The ruling emir will continue to appoint the remaining 15 members of the council.

The council will enjoy legislative authority and approve general state policies and the budget, but has no control over executive bodies setting defense, security, economic and investment policy.