Manama: General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior, held the annual meeting with heads and officials of Maatams (community centres) across Bahrain's governorates.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the meeting, held at the Police Officers Club, was attended by the Minister of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Waqf, the Deputy Minister of Interior, the Chief of Public Security, and the governors. It aligns with the Ministry of Interior's commitment to promoting community partnership and constructive communication with all segments of society, and its coordination efforts for the upcoming Ashoora commemoration.
In his remarks, the Interior Minister conveyed the greetings of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. He also thanked the Minister of Justice and the Head of the Jaafari Waqf Directorate for their continued support and efforts in preparing for the Ashoora commemoration.
The minister said the meeting came amid the current regional situation, noting its security implications that necessitate caution. He said that the situation was stabilising through negotiations, emphasising that the current sensitive period calls for greater unity and vigilance, leaving no room for those seeking to undermine national cohesion. He said certain individuals, known on social media for spreading discord, should not be given the opportunity to sow confusion and exploit public sentiment during Ashoora.
The Minister expressed confidence in the community's loyalty, national values, and sense of responsibility, noting that such incitement has no place in Bahrain's collective spirit. He affirmed that Bahrain is not a nation of winners versus losers, but a homeland of shared existence and one unified society under the leadership of His Majesty the King. He emphasised the deep-rooted bonds that unite Bahrainis, including a strong sense of belonging, pride in national identity, and a firm belief in a common destiny.
He recounted Bahrain's success in organising Ashoora during the COVID-19 pandemic and lauded the high levels of organisation and discipline during last year's commemoration. He expressed appreciation to the heads of Maatams, organisers, and reciters for their cooperation, noting that such collective effort reflects a deep sense of societal awareness and national responsibility.
The minister said that, given the sensitive regional context, organisers hold even greater responsibility this year to ensure activities are well managed and in accordance with the law. He stressed that any attempt to disrupt order would be addressed, asserting that Ashoora should not be a platform exploited to cause chaos but a model of organisation and respect.
The minister underlined that Maatams in Bahrain have existed for centuries, even before their presence in Iran, have been an integral part of the country's religious and cultural fabric and remain preserved and maintained by the families who established them over generations. He emphasised that these community centres continue to receive support within Bahrain's longstanding values of tolerance, coexistence, and respect for religious traditions.
He also called on organisers to uphold the essence of the commemoration and prevent Hussaini processions from being diverted into political demonstrations. He noted that Maatam officials lead the efforts to uphold the discipline and organisation of the commemoration, assuring them of the ministry's support in maintaining security while warning that those who seek to violate regulations will be confronted.
Dr. Hassan Al Arrayed, speaking on behalf of the heads and officials of Maatams, expressed appreciation to His Majesty the King and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for their continued support. He also commended the Minister of Interior, for his commitment to ongoing communication with the community through the annual meeting.
Dr. Al Arrayed highlighted the shared values that unite Bahraini society, particularly the enduring bonds of national cohesion passed down through generations. He emphasised that these common values and principles call on all members of society to uphold their responsibilities in ensuring the success of the Ashoora commemoration.
He emphasised that Ashoora should be commemorated free from external influence and political interference, preserving its religious character. He also noted that Bahraini families have long embraced the commemoration as an opportunity for unity, dedication, and social cohesion, reflecting the values of the occasion.
Following the meeting, the heads and officials of Maatams commended the continued support for Ashoora from His Majesty the King and the government, led by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. They also lauded the efforts of all relevant authorities in ensuring the success of the commemoration through the provision of essential services and the promotion of social stability and harmony.