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There is a big change on the horizon for Saudi women. For the first time ever, the Middle Eastern Kingdom's ruler King Abdullah, may allow women to take part in municipal elections, the nation's only public polls.
Women could also be appointed to the Shura Council. Though Saudi Arabia is an absolutist monarchy, the council has the power to draft laws and propose them to the King.
"Because we refuse to marginalise women in society in all roles that comply with sharia, we have decided, after deliberation with our senior ulama (clerics) and others... to involve women in the Shura Council as members, starting from the next term," King said Abdullah.
"Women will be able to run as candidates in the municipal election and will even have a right to vote."
If the law goes through, women would be able to participate in the elections in four years' time.
In spite of the anti-government protests going on in other parts of the Middle East, Saudi Arabia has so far had no demonstrations opposing its rule. But the reform is overdue and certainly welcome news.
Now, if only women could drive themselves to the polling stations... Baby steps.