The Emirati was ridiculed on air as he called a live radio programme in Ajman to air his grievances.

The UAE leadership's top priority is to make every citizen feel safe, secure, settled and happy by ensuring a decent life for them, an Emirati who received help from the country's Vice-President has said. The Emirati was ridiculed on air as he called a live radio programme in Ajman to air his grievances.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, immediately responded to the Emirati's distress call. He directed the authorities concerned to provide the Emirati and his family with all their needs within 24 hours.

Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman, had earlier ordered the suspension of the radio programme host Yaqoub Al Awadhi.

Talking to Khaleej Times on Tuesday, the distressed citizen, Ali Rashid Al Mazrouei, said the country's leadership will always support citizens and residents and offer them justice through policies and legislations that ensure their dignity.



The Emirati from Al Dadgaga area in Ras Al Khaimah had called the radio station, stressing the need to meet the needs of citizens, especially those with limited incomes.



Al Mazrouei, 57, pointed out that his call was aimed at focusing the attention of the government department concerned to meet the needs of citizens, especially those with limited income.



"I made the call because I wanted to push the department to speed up and follow up on my application for a house so I can provide shelter for my nine children, who are minors.



"I'm suffering from a host of diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure, due to which I am unable to work and support my family. I have to depend on the monthly salary given by the social affairs department, which is no longer enough to meet my household requirements.



"When I called, I never expected such kind of shocking and disappointing reaction from the presenter. But I knew that my voice had reached the right people and the UAE leadership would not hesitate to support me and provide me justice. The live programme was meant to be a platform for all citizens and to address their needs," Al Mazrouei said.



He stressed that the UAE's wise leadership is keen to preserve "our dignity inside and outside the country".



He appreciated the directives of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid to look after all his needs immediately and meet the requirements of a decent life for him and his family.



He pointed out that the order issued by Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid to sack the radio presenter confirms that the leadership is proactive in preserving the rights and the dignity of its citizens.



He added: "It is not right for anyone, especially in the media, to underestimate the rights and demands of the citizens. Our government's doors are open to all citizens and residents to address their problems and meet their needs in order to ensure a decent life for them."



afkarali@khaleejtimes.com