Saudi reform process

There are to be nationwide elections in Saudi Arabia, starting on Thursday. They're only for local councils, and only for half the seats at that. Oh, and women can't stand as candidates or vote. Still:

Already there are unfamiliar scenes on Riyadh's streets.

For the first time there are forums, daily meetings at candidates' headquarters, where people can discuss social issues away from the control of religious authorities...

Candidates' flyers are thrown into open car windows, and brochures are folded into newspapers.

The glass maybe a quarter full then.