Interior Minister Stresses Community Partnership for Safe and Peaceful Ashura Season

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

In a demonstration of the Ministry of Interior's commitment to community partnership and constructive dialogue, Major Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior, attended the annual meeting with members of the Husseini Processions Commission and heads of Matams across the governorates.

The meeting, held at the Security Officers Club, was attended by the Chief of Public Security and the Governors, and aimed at fostering cooperation and coordination for the smooth organisation of the Ashura season.

In his address, the Minister of Interior extended his greetings to the attendees, thanking them for their presence and highlighting the importance of this meeting in ensuring a successful Ashura season.

He conveyed the greetings of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, emphasising His Majesty's unwavering commitment to national unity and the promotion of tolerance, dignity, and humanity.

The Minister also extended the greetings of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, expressing his appreciation for their tireless efforts in organising the Ashura season.

"Today, we gather with a shared commitment and the collective efforts of all concerned parties to ensure a safe and peaceful Ashura season," stated the Minister.

He expressed his gratitude to the Ja'afari Endowments Administration and the heads of mourning Matams for their dedication and constructive cooperation in preserving the rituals of Ashura. He emphasised that religious observances, particularly Ashura, are spiritual occasions that bring people together, fostering social closeness and tolerance.

The Minister highlighted Bahrain's rich cultural heritage, which has embraced diverse religions and sects, respecting customs and traditions, allowing everyone to live in harmony and unity.

He underscored the unique significance of Ashura, emphasising the need to safeguard the event from any negative influences stemming from regional events. He stressed the importance of upholding the religious essence of Ashura and maintaining its spiritual integrity, particularly in light of current challenges.

"We have qualified preachers and reciters capable of reviving the Ashura season with its full rituals, as Bahrain has always known it," he stated. He stressed the importance of responsible religious discourse, promoting Islamic values and morals, and acknowledging the crucial role of these individuals in leading the Husseini processions and mourning Matams.

In conclusion, the Minister expressed his appreciation for the attendees' efforts, highlighting their reflection of Bahrain's social cohesion and the spirit of cooperation and brotherhood among its people.

Meanwhile, Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Governor of the Capital Governorate, delivered a speech on behalf of the government agencies responsible for providing the necessary resources and facilities for the Ashura season.

He commended the Royal patronage of His Majesty the King and the follow-up of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister for the Ashura season and all religious events, ensuring their observance in an atmosphere of security and peace.

He emphasised the commitment to utilising all resources to celebrate this occasion with the customary civilized manner befitting the Kingdom of Bahrain. He expressed his gratitude to the Minister of Interior for his directives to the Governorates and the various departments of the Ministry of Interior, working tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of citizens and residents, as well as the smooth flow of traffic.

The Governor of the Capital praised the strong communication, coordination, and cooperation between the Ja'afari Endowments Administration, the Husseini Processions Commission, and the heads of mourning Matams with the security and service agencies. He attributed this to their social awareness and responsibility, respecting the spirituality of this religious occasion and preserving its unique character.

From his side, Mr. Yusuf bin Saleh Al Saleh, Chairman of the Ja'afari Endowments Council, expressed his deepest gratitude to His Majesty the King and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister for their unwavering support and respect for all religious observances, particularly the Ashura season.

He highlighted His Majesty the King's commitment to upholding the traditions of his ancestors, the rulers of Bahrain, in safeguarding and nurturing this occasion. He extended his sincere gratitude to His Majesty for his continuous pardons, reflecting his paternal care for his loyal people.

Additionally, members of the Husseini Processions Commission and heads of mourning Matams expressed their profound gratitude to the Minister of Interior for his cooperation and dedication to providing all necessary facilities for the success of the Ashura season.

They acknowledged the role of the Governorates in ongoing monitoring and coordination, emphasising the importance of strengthening bonds of love and respect among community members.