ABU DHABI 

The United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) appointed Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al-Nahyan as the country’s new president for the fourth consecutive term.

His “re-election” came “in accordance with the provisions of the UAE Constitution”, state news agency WAM said.

Sheikh Khalifa’s opponents say the Gulf nation is actually ruled by Abu Dhabi’s crown prince Mohammed bin Zayed, who is also the president’s younger brother.

Sheikh Khalifa first took office of the president on Nov. 3, 2004.

Read more: UAE re-appoints Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed as president