Statement from His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa

MANAMA, Bahrain, September 24, 2011 -

(BNA) — His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa congratulated and commended the people of Bahrain for their resolve to take part in the kingdom’s parliamentary by-elections.

The determination of Bahrainis to take part positively in the elections has asserted that the country is headed on the right path toward a better future, HRH the Premier said in a statement.

“By massively turning up at polling centres, the Bahraini people have shown the world an image of resolve, epitomizing the values of national belonging and underlined their commitment to be an active part in shaping a crucial phase in the history of national work on the basis of participation in decision making.”

HRH the Prime Minister praised the embrace of freedom and democracy, which characterized the electoral process as well as citizen’s focused efforts to cast their ballots, as part of the next step to help usher in a new chapter of democracy in Bahrain.

He said the parliamentary by-elections, which took place today, is an unprecedented historical event, showcasing democratic form in Bahrain.

The popular turnout has revealed citizens’ willingness to be partners in building Bahrain, boosting democracy and maintaining national unity and growth, he stressed.

“Bahrain’s civil and developmental achievements will be maximized over time thanks to a quantum and qualitative growth as the government is committed to build a better Bahrain,” HRH the Prime Minister emphasized.

He pledged to continue to maintain the citizens’ security in the kingdom so that it will remain an oasis of peace and stability.

Nothing will prevent the government from providing protection to the nation and citizens, he said commending the wise policies of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

These policies have laid the solid basis for a modern state where all Bahrainis play a pivotal role in making decisions, he added.

HRH the Prime Minister also asserted the government’s openness in maintaining cooperation with the legislative power so as to achieve citizens’ aspirations.

We are on the threshold of a new phase of national work, which requires support between all parties. Regional challenges demand a new spirit of dedication to overcome obstacles, he said, pointing out that fruitful collaboration between the executive and legislative powers is the optimum way to steer the nation in the right direction.

He wished the parliament every success in living up to the confidence entrusted by the voters and pledged support from the government.

Finally, he thanked the elections executive committee as well as all those who contributed to success of the by-elections, including journalists, media persons and local, Arab and international correspondents.

Muhannad Sulaiman, +973-39722296