Religious freedom aplenty in Kingdom, say scholars

Manama : Bahrain is a haven for religious freedom, religious scholars said during a meeting held in the Capital by Interior Minister Lieutenant General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa yesterday.

Speaking to DT News on the sidelines of the event were Sunni Endowments Council Chairman Dr. Rashid Al Hajeri, Jaffaria Waqf Directorate Chairman Shaikh Mohsen Al Asfoor and Bahrain Association for Religious Coexistence and Tolerance Vice Chairman and Bahrain’s National Evangelic Church Pastor Reverend Hani Aziz.

When asked about the importance of such meetings in strengthening social and religious cohesion, Rev. Aziz said, “This initiative from the Minister to bring the people together and update them about security situations reflects cohesion in its best forms. These meetings strengthen people’s trust in Interior Ministry and security officials.” 

“When we’re informed transparently about the situations in the country, we feel safe and know that the people in charge of protecting the country are vigilant and fully aware of any local or foreign conspiracies and threats. By this initiative, the ministry is engaging the people in the responsibility of maintaining peace and security,” the reverend told.

He added, “The church is an integral part of the national fabric of the Kingdom. The National Evangelic Church has been established in Bahrain in 1906. We enjoy endless freedom and we’re invited to all national events and activities. I thank the Kingdom’s Wise Leadership and authorities for making us feel that we’re an essential part of this beautiful country.”

Shias enjoy endless freedom 

Shaikh Al Asfoor rebuffed the allegations claiming that the Shia sect in Bahrain is targeted.

He said, “We have repeatedly stated that the Shia sect isn’t targeted in Bahrain. Creating this false buzz serves certain interests and agendas. The Shia sect is appreciated and respected on all public and official levels.”

“Nowadays, we live the Muharram and Ashoora commemorations season, which is annually relived by Shias over world. The State is sparing no efforts in facilitating these activities and providing the necessary services to ensure the success of the religious season. This is the main and clearest proof that refutes such false allegations,” he explained. “We have joint committees working with the authorities to report any violations or threats. We stand as one against any attempts to hinder this occasion.”

Commenting on the meeting, Sheikh Al Asfoor said, “This meeting is important as it gathers the main figures, dignitaries and elite of the Bahraini community.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Al Hajeri noted the unprecedented initiative announced by Shaikh Rashid by the end of his speech, saying, “The Minister’s announcement of allocating meetings to be held in the near future between top security officials and citizens is a positive step. This would bring citizens and officials in charge of their security closer.”