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Voting Rights Bill for Kuwaiti Women Hits Snag

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The Kuwaiti parliament failed Monday to pass legislation allowing women to participate in local elections. With 60 lawmakers taking part, the final vote was 29 "for", two "against" and 29 abstentions. The legislation needed 33 votes in favor to pass.

Authorities say they expect the matter to be taken up again Tuesday, but say there is no agreement on whether another vote will take place.

Parliament gave the voting measure preliminary approval on April 19. But today's second reading and second vote was required before the proposal can become law.

Analysts say those abstaining included Islamists and tribal conservatives who did not want to anger either conservative constituents opposed to the legislation, or the government which supports the bill.

Some information for this report provided by Reuters and AP.

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