Exploiting democratic openness warned

Manama: Bahrain has the right to enforce the law on any group or personality that exploits the democratic openness in the prosperous era of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, said Information Affairs Minister Ali bin Mohammed Al Rumaihi yesterday. 

He said that the court ruling to close Al Wefaq society premises and suspend its activity was necessary and needed to rectify the political action in the country. 

In a statement to Sky News Arabia, he said, “such decisions are necessary and needed to put the political action back on the right track, in light of sectarian incitement and polarisation.” 

He urged all political associations to assume their responsibilities and maintain national unity, which is considered as a red line not to be crossed by anyone in Bahrain. 

While commending Bahrainis’ national awareness and political maturity, he said some groups linked to religious parties and foreign-backed agendas were adamant on pushing the country in the cauldron of sectarianism. “What’s happening in neighbouring countries makes it necessary for us to take many pre-emptive measures to protect our national achievements.” 

He said that the verdicts, which were issued on Tuesday, do not restrict liberties, adding that Bahrain has the highest rate of political associations, with more than 22 societies, which cannot be morphed into just one association. “Bahrain boasts today more than 617 non-governmental associations which are exercising their activities in total
freedom.” 

In a statement to Al-Arabiya channel, Al Rumaihi pointed out that the court verdicts sanctioning Al Wefaq society aimed to rectify the political process. 

He said that Bahrain plays an active role in the Arab and Islamic Alliance, which was set up to combat extremist groups and defend the national security of Bahrain, the Arabian Gulf and other countries in the region. 

Commenting on the verdict, the Minister said that the sentence stipulates the closure of Al Wefaq headquarters and suspension of its activity, pending court ruling.