Election centres opened in Oman on 25 October for Omanis to vote for the sultanate’s lower house of parliament, the Majlis al-Shura.

A total of 590 candidates, 20 of whom are women, are competing for 85 seats in the polls.

The Majlis al-Shura is overshadowed by the executive branch of the government in decision-making.

The body gained new powers in 2011, following the regional unrest. It elected a speaker for the first time and can now revise and introduce legislation, as well as summon ministers to answer questions. However, all legislation must be voted on by an upper house appointed by the sultan, and then approved by the government.

The Majlis al-Shura is not regarded to have used its powers effectively in the previous term. Voter turnout is expected to be low.