Bahrain joins global community in celebrating International Day of Democracy today

TDT | Manama                                                                        

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain has made remarkable achievements in promoting sound democractic practices and the preservation of human rights. It is within the Kingdom’s commitment and adherence to the principles, values and vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, who laid the foundations for the practice of open democracy and honest elections solemnly enshrined in the National Action Charter and the Constitution.

As Bahrain joins the global community today in celebrating the International Day of Democracy, which falls on September 15 of each year, it will keep moving confidently ahead to consolidate the foundations of the civil state built on justice and equality for all.

Freedoms

Foreign Affairs Minister Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani lauded the democratic approach of His Majesty, which is based on justice, the rule of law, respect for human rights and press and media freedoms.

He congratulated His Majesty the King and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, on the occasion, and will focus this year on the importance of media freedom to democracy.

Dr Al Zayani noted the efforts of the government in protecting freedom of press and media and supporting outlets to promote the values of tolerance, coexistence and democracy.

Vision

Shura Council Chairman Ali bin Saleh Al Saleh said that the vision of HM King Hamad consolidated and strengthened the democratic approach of the legislative branch since 2002, and supported its role in serving the country.

He praised the interest and follow-up of HM the King to the legislative branch, which enabled it to actively contribute to building a state of institutions and law in accordance with civilised and modern concepts.

The Chairman expressed his appreciation for the attention, follow-up and support of HRH Salman in urging for more initiatives and projects to enhance the democratic values in Bahrain.

Cohesion

Council of Representatives Speaker Fawzia bint Abdullah Zainal said that Bahrain is living its most democratic era in light of the comprehensive development process of HM the King.

She stressed that the Kingdom is witnessing cohesion between the people and their leadership and consolidating the principles of democracy, especially human rights, justice and equality. Zainal said that the National Action Charter and the Constitution affirmed the consolidation of democracy and the exercise of responsible freedom.