MANAMA: The Interior Ministry on Saturday played down the rhetoric of some quarters on heavy security presence in Bahrain saying that the Ministry had adhered and fulfilled its responsibility by protecting the security and general order surrounding the parliamentary and municipal elections 2014.
A strong police presence was visible in Bahrain throughout the day and police were on heightened alert for any possible trouble.
The comprehensive security plan included the protection of vital utilities and main roads leading to polling stations. There was also a heavy deployment of traffic patrols to ensure smooth traffic flow for voters and candidates.
Security procedures surrounding the transfer of ballot boxes to the voting stations took place under the judiciary supervision, which contributed to the opening of the stations on time and allowed voters to practice their constitutional rights in a secure and organized environment.
The Interior Ministry confirmed that it will continue to secure the election process and take appropriate steps against lawbreakers. The Interior Ministry also expressed thanks and appreciation to citizens who voted and who were cooperative while waiting in long queues. The large number of enthusiastic and motivated voters who turned up to vote showed the determination of the people to participate in this democratic process in a way that reflects the best of Bahrain.