Bahrain’s King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa called for national unity and dialogue to overcome the recent painful events that marked the start of the year, the state-run BNA reported.

Speaking in a televised address to mark the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, the King said he forgives those who criticized him and urged others to do the same.

He said that shunning division within the same nation were “good traditions that must be perpetuated.”

“Your agreements on further reforms are highly appreciated, deeply welcomed and greatly supported,” HRH told his people.

“We do hope that our beloved nation will witness a new stage of outstanding productivity, cohesion and stability as our reforms move forward.”

“The last few months were painful for all of us, and even though we all live in the same country, some have forgotten about the inevitability of co-existence.”

“Despite our full commitment to achieving security, safety and tranquility for our people, we do not want any prejudice to any of our citizens in their security, freedom, source of income or education, in a way that results in bitterness and affects their contributions to the nation.”

“Our aspiration is for tolerance and for shunning violence, and not for excessive punishment that affects our unity, cohesion and national co-existence.”

The Bahraini King stressed that that all civil cases will have their final ruling issued in civil courts. “The decision to set up the independent fact-finding commission is the best indication of our full commitment to knowing the whole truth and to giving people their rights,” he added.

 

Source: Reuters; BNA