http://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/first-women-elected-public-office-saudi-arabia-n479191
This nbc news article covers the elections held in Saudi Arabia over the weekend. It was the first time in the country’s history that women were given the right to vote as well as to run for political office. The article notes a tension between conservative religious groups and the political movement advocating for gender equality in the country. The country’s Grand Mufti is its highest ranking religious figure and in regard to women’s involvement in the political process he was quoted saying he believed the country was “opening the door to evil.” While elections were held only for municipal council seats with no real legislative power, many women still turned out to vote. The article reports that 17 women were elected to positions on municipal councils which signifies a huge step in the right direction for a country that still forbids women to drive or open a bank account without their husband’s permission.