Political talk show resumes as King issues Royal Order

Manama

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A political talk show on national television that was recently suspended by a Ministerial decision, has been resumed by a Royal Order of His Majesty the King.

This was announced on Monday’s episode of Kalima Akeera (one last word in Arabic) show by its host Sawsan Al Shaer, who is a renowned media figure in the Kingdom.

Ms. Al Shaer confirmed at the show, “I want to explain that the show was ordered to be resumed by HM the King, after it was suspended by Information Affairs Minister. I thank God and HM the King for this.” “The people who defended the show and demanded its resumption, were not defending the show itself. They were defending their right of expression, because they see the show as a tribune, a breather and their voice.”

Ms. Al Shaer commented that the media strategy of the country, especially television, isn’t compatible with the reforms of HM the King that ensure freedom of expression.

However, the episode created mixed reaction among Bahraini social media users, as some viewers supported Al Shaer’s statements, while others lambasted her remarks. 

There is no official confirmation yet on the reason behind the suspension of the show. But, what is being circulated is that it promotes social division and runs on a  high-string  budget exceeding BD10, 000 a month.

Ms. Al Shaer, who is also a columnist in the pan-Arab journal Asharq Al-Awsat and local daily Al Watan, is known for her harsh criticism of officials failing to perform.