HM King Hamad hails Bahrain’s alternative sentencing programme as region’s ‘first of its kind’

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa commended the Ministry of Interior for the success and professional implementation of the alternative sentencing programme, which is the first of its kind in the region.

In his address, while receiving senior members of the royal family, the Chairman of the Shura Council, the Speaker of the Representatives Council, and other officials at Sakhir Palace yesterday, HM the King highlighted the commitment and efforts of the constitutional and legislative bodies.

He emphasised their ongoing commitment and efforts to developing criminal justice measures and a unique model based on restorative justice and human rights principles.

HM the King thanked His Excellency General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, the Interior Minister, and all officials involved in this initiative, which has advanced significantly and gained international recognition.

His Majesty congratulated the team for their successful efforts in providing beneficiaries with new opportunities for social reintegration and family stability.

He emphasised the importance of the goals of the programme, directing for further developing it and expanding the range of opportunities for benefiting from it.

HM the King welcomed the attendees and praised the long-standing Bahraini tradition of such gatherings, which strengthen community ties.

General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah delivered a speech in which he expressed gratitude to His Majesty for his support.

He noted that the alternative sentencing law, was guided by HM the King’s directives, emphasising that youth do not belong in prison, but rather should be embraced by their families, community, and country.

In light of the royal directives, the minister said, the directorate has been assigned to formulate required programmes in liaison with partner entities.

He highlighted the role of the Public Prosecution in coordinating between the police and the judiciary.

The Interior Minister thanked HM King Hamad for his recognition of the members of the General Directorate of Verdict Enforcement and Alternative Sentencing, emphasising their commitment and determination to serve their nation.

General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah highlighted the pivotal role of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in the success of the programme since its launch in 2018.

The programme has reintegrated 7,458 beneficiaries, with a compliance rate of 97.5%, one of the highest globally