Minister of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa underscored the Kingdom’s assiduity to maintain its path to total modernization and development, and its continued endeavour to implement the consensuses achieved in the National Dialogue which ushered a new chapter on the road to reform and development, and the ongoing follow up of the implementation of the recommendations of the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry (BICI).
Shaikh Khalid lauded the broad initiatives and processes being carried out by the Government of Bahrain as part of a comprehensive vision focusing on the consolidation of law and order, and promoting the spirit of reconciliation in accordance with the directives of His Majesty King of Bahrain, and in implementation of the BICI recommendations.
“Self review and accountability by all concerned based on the objective and thorough reading of the BICI findings and recommendations is a fundamental duty and everyone’s national responsibility, and all must be seriously committed to participate in promoting trust, reconciliation and understanding in political action,” he said.
Minister of Justice urged all political societies to actively participate in the promotion of positive attitudes supportive of the evolution and advancement of political action, and emphasized that the exchange of views by all constituents and segments of society through communication and joint meetings at the national level can significantly contribute to enhancing mutual confidence and understanding in political aspects, and enhance gains and advancement, as well as building upon achievements realized through constitutional institutions.
“The principle of consensus remains the binding national benchmark, as reflected in His Majesty’s speech on the occasion of the last ten days of the Holy Month of Ramadan, emphasizing dialogue and reconciliation as essential milestones for joint national action, and stressing that national reconciliation will always provide the solid foundation for any change process in the public arena, transparently, and with everyone’s participation. Common understanding is the path to wisdom and strength, and consensus is the sturdiest support and best guarantee to achieve solid, effective and continuous reforms,” the Minister added.
Shaikh Khalid called for the stern rejection of violence at all times, as the sanctity of the country’s security and stability and the safety of citizens and residents must be respected all days and all months.
The message of violence intended to hold security hostage is contrary to all democratic principles and practices which must be founded on the respect of law and order and tolerance of the opinion of the other.
His Excellency pointed out the importance and role of balanced speech based on mutual respect, brotherly spirit and love, which form the fabric of this good people, conducive of the values of constructive difference, openness and listening to the opinion of the other without provocation, accusation of treason, and exclusion.
He stated that all judiciary action taken in cases being tried by courts or which are currently under investigation are completely separate from the political path, and said all cases related to past events which are still being considered, or new cases are criminal cases to be decided by courts alone. He also stressed due respect of the courts, their decisions and rulings, to consolidate justice and the rule of law, and protect freedoms and the rights of all parties.
Sheikh Khalid pledged that meetings with political associations will continue after Eid Al-Fitr. Meetings were held during Ramadan with Al Asalah Islamic Society, National Unity Gathering, Al Wefaq National Islamic Society, Al Minbar National Islamic Society, National Democratic Action Society (Waad), Al Wasat Arab Isalmic Democratic Society, Al Rabitah Islamic Society, National Democratic Rally Association, Islamic Shura Society, Democratic Progressive Tribune, National Action Charter, National Liberal Thought Society, Justice and Development Society, and Willpower and Change Society.