His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, affirmed that the main role of establishing the districts and villages councils, is to deliver the citizens’ voices to officials. This came during His Highness’ intervention via the Direct Line Programme, broadcast live on Sharjah Radio and Television.

During the intervention, His Highness said that the establishment of the districts and villages councils is to deliver the citizens’ voices to officials, explaining that issues related to cleanliness of the district, and other services fall under the responsibility of the Sharjah Municipality, while electricity lines and water management are the sole responsibility of Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority (SEWA). The same is true with road problems which the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority (SRTA) handles. As such, came the establishment of the districts and villages councils.

His Highness added that citizens have the right to be heard in all areas, such right include the ability to voice any remarks that could affect the livelihood of their district.   

As one of the channels through which citizens can communicate their needs and complaints to the officials, the “Direct Line” can’t cope up with all daily calls to convey such complaints; here comes the role of the districts and villages councils, His Highness clarified.

Correcting the belief of some citizens that communicating their voices to officials lies in the role of the Sharjah Consultative council (SCC), His Highness explained that the SCC has specific and direct authority to the departments represented in Sharjah Executive Council (SEC).

His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah said that the councils are the eyes through which the Ruler of Sharjah monitors the public, as there are a number of channels to receive complaints and grievances. His Highness pointed that the role of the councils is great, and is not focused on personal matters, hoping that citizens would understand the correct message behind the councils.

His Highness continued that the councils have a supervisory role on the municipality and other departments, holding an official authority that allows the councils to communicate with such entities, as they deal in all areas of society.

Highlighting the role of the councils in strengthening the social bonds among citizens and revitalising the noble traits of fathers, grandfathers and ancestors, His Highness urged parents to inculcate in their children generosity and hospitality before wishing all goodness, safety and good luck.