Citizenships Obtained by Fraud Being Revoked: Interior Minister

The Minister of Interior, H.E. General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, has confirmed that the committee reviewing cases of Bahraini citizenship acquisition to rectify errors is continuing its work. The committee has begun taking legal action according to established procedures regarding completed files, he stressed.

The Minister clarified that individuals who obtained Bahraini citizenship in violation of the law are being dealt with according to the provisions of the Nationality Law of 1963 and its amendments. This may result in the revocation or withdrawal of citizenship and associated privileges.

"This action is taken after confirmation of cases where individuals provided false or forged information or documents to obtain citizenship, misused citizenship, or harmed the interests and social security of the Kingdom," he pointed out. “Fraud to obtain Bahraini citizenship is unacceptable and a crime against the nation,” stated the Minister.

“Citizenship represents a supreme value and a solid foundation for strengthening social security, safeguarding national identity, and preserving it. The honour of acquiring citizenship for anyone, in principle, is only possible through the controls established by legal texts. Therefore, obtaining it without justification compels us to confront those who have wronged the state that has embraced them, supported their families, provided them with reassurance, and offered them a source of livelihood and a decent life.”

The Minister highlighted the committee’s significant efforts to reach the truth based on compelling evidence and sufficient convictions. "This allows for a review of those who acquired citizenship through illegal means and the taking of action against those who obtained it without justification," he pointed out.

Further, the Minister explained that the hotline "997," established by the Ministry of Interior to report any information, complaints, or observations regarding the unlawful acquisition of Bahraini citizenship, received approximately 146 reports between June 27th and July 23rd, 2024.

Of these, 73 related to non-biological children and 35 reports concerned obtaining citizenship without fulfilling the required duration. The Minister noted that the committee has begun contacting those who submitted reports to inform them of the findings. He also commended the national sentiment demonstrated by everyone through their cooperation in providing the committee with information and data that has been utilised. This was achieved through contacting the dedicated hotline.