Voting begins in Saudi Arabia's first elections open to female voters

Dec 12,  5:25 PM Voting began today in Saudi Arabia's first elections open to female voters and candidates, a tentative initiative towards easing restrictions that are among the world's tightest on women. In another first, women were allowed to stand as candidates in the elections for municipal councils, the country's only elected public chambers. Male voters began to enter voting centre in central Riyadh at about 8:00 A.M. (0500 GMT). More than 900 women are running for seats on municipal councils, the kingdom's sole elected public chambers. About 6,000 men are competing for places on 284 councils whose powers are restricted to local affairs. However, one-third of council seats are appointed by the municipal affairs ministry. The results of the elections are expected to be announced later on Saturday.