In a significant move towards fostering reconciliation & social cohesion, HM King Hamad has granted a royal pardon to 1584 prisoners, including many charged with arson, sabotage, and other crimes, some of which are related to the political unrest of 2011. This decision by the King marks a positive step forward in bridging the gap among different segments of society.
The royal pardon not only symbolises a gesture of forgiveness but also underscores the leadership’s commitment to promoting unity and stability in the Kingdom. Recognising the importance of integrating former prisoners back into society, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister Prince Salman has instructed the Ministry of Labour to facilitate job opportunities and training programmes for the released prisoners. This proactive approach aims to empower them to become positive and productive contributors to their communities, steering them away from violence.
“We welcome the government’s decision to pardon and release 1584 prisoners in royal decree ahead of Eid Al Fitr 2024. This initiative paves the way for upholding human rights through the adoption of alternative sentencing laws and open prison programs” Regional Office of UN Human Rights MENA
The royal pardon has gained positive feedback from international organisations, some of which have been critical of the country’s human rights record. Many critics have welcomed this progressive initiative and acknowledged its potential to set a good step for reconciliation. Additionally, many opposition supporters and figures have embraced the royal pardon as a keymilestone in the nation’s journey towards a new era, while emphasizing the need for continued efforts to address underlying grievances and promote inclusivity.
Bahrain has always been known to be a beacon of tolerance and a melting pot of cultures that brings people from different sects, faiths, ideologies and religions together. Since the King’s accession to the throne Bahrain has witnessed several ground-breaking steps that promoted peace and tolerance. These steps include the 2001 constitutional referendum ( the National Action Charter) that initiated Bahrain’s democratisation and reform process, hence giving all citizens equal rights to vote and be part of the decision making process through the parliament. The Charter also paved the way for the emergence of political blocs as it allowed the formation of political societies.
Another important step previously taken by the King was the pardoning of political prisoners and exiled citizens following his accession to the throne and then including some of the figures also in the government through ministerial and other decision making posts. The referendum and the former pardoning were at the time unprecedented steps that highlighted the King’s continuous efforts to bring Bahrainis closer together.
Celebrations in various parts of Bahrain following the release of the prisoners reflect a sense of optimism and hope for the future. Both loyalists and opposition sympathisers alike, joined in expressing their appreciation for the King’s decision. This is considered as a testament to the harmony of the Bahraini society and the collective desire to move forward together, leaving behind the discord of the past.
As Bahrain embraces this moment of unity, it sets a promising example for the region and the world at large. By prioritising forgiveness and inclusivity, the kingdom demonstrates its commitment to building a brighter future for all its citizens. As the released prisoners embark on their journey of reintegration, supported by comprehensive rehabilitation programmes, Bahrain takes a decisive step that reemphasizes its vision of a peaceful and prosperous future.