In a reaffirmation of Bahrain’s dedication to human rights and reconciliation, His Majesty the King has once again demonstrated his leadership in fostering unity and peace. Following the historic pardon of more than 1,500 inmates in April, King Hamad has taken another significant step in this direction by pardoning an additional 457 inmates. This move not only highlights Bahrain’s ongoing commitment to upholding justice and humanitarian principles but also marks a continuation of the country’s long-standing efforts to strengthen social cohesion and promote national harmony. The royal pardons reflect the state’s focus on balancing justice with compassion, a main pillar of HM the King’s vision for a prosperous and inclusive Bahrain.
Why are inmates being pardoned?
“The royal pardon reflects HM the King’s dedication to fostering social cohesion and upholding the principles of justice and the rule of law. It also aims to balance legal accountability with the humanitarian and social circumstances of the inmates, providing them with an opportunity to reintegrate into society. This approach aligns with Bahrain’s commitment to human rights and its prominent standing within the region,” Bahrain News Agency.
It is significant to note that Bahrain has always centered its policies on peacebuilding and unity. This latest pardon coincides with the celebration of the King’s Silver Jubilee, marking 25 years since his accession to the throne in March 1999. Over these two and a half decades, Bahrain has undergone a remarkable transformation, reshaping its political and economic landscape and steering the Kingdom into a more progressive era of development. The reforms that began with the National Charter of 2001 and evolved in response to the challenges of the 2011 political unrest have laid the groundwork for lasting change, despite obstacles along the way. The royal pardon of inmates is anything but new to the vision of HM the King. Upon his accession to the throne, the King pardoned all prisoners involved in riots and acts of sabotage during the 1980s and 1990s, many of whom were guilty of terrorist activities that included a number of incidents that led to casualties at the time. This bold move also included the return of all those in exile, thus ensuring a clean slate and the inclusion of all segments of society in the democratic process. It was a defining moment that set Bahrain on a path of peace, driven by the King’s forward-thinking leadership.
The unfortunate events of 2011 redirected the political landscape as some political entities and individuals hijacked the movement calling for reform, leading the Kingdom into chaos while disregarding the commendable steps taken by the King upon his accession to the throne. The 2024 royal pardons are a clear signal that the state is taking the matter of reconciliation and peace seriously. This latest pardon, grounded in humanitarian reasons, aims to promote social cohesion and bring the country together. It “should not” be seen as an acquittal based on false charges.
Welcomed by Opposition and Loyalists
Despite concerns about the opposition’s usual sidelining of these initiatives by the state, loyalists have commended the pardon in the hope of providing the released inmates a second chance for reintegration into society. This gesture is seen as part of the tolerant culture and identity that Bahrainis pride themselves on.On the other hand, the opposition, spearheaded by Al Wefaq National Islamic Society, has also welcomed the pardon, yet expressed hopes for the release of other inmates.
“We commend with utmost gratitude the pardoning of a number of prisoners. This is a step that heads in the direction of further stability and confidence-building between the people and the state. We await more pardons; this is not difficult as long as there are good intentions. Building a foundation for love is the right choice. The greatest hope lies in emptying the prisons,” Shaikh Abdullah Al Ghuraifi, Senior Shia Cleric
Confidence Building?
While the state has once again shown its commitment to promoting social cohesion and political stability through such measures, Bahrain is yet to witness clear and straightforward seriousness from opposition entities. A genuine effort from the opposition could start with statements encouraging youth and pardoned inmates from opposition strongholds to become active members of their society, avoid unlicensed public gatherings, and steer clear of protests that may create tensions between police, protesters, and other segments of society.
By releasing a second large batch of prisoners, the vision for a stable Bahrain has been made clear by the state. We hope that the opposition embraces these commendable steps and engages in meaningful confidence-building for the future of our country.
We extend our best wishes to the pardoned inmates, encouraging them to take full advantage of this opportunity to contribute to Bahrain’s journey towards progress, stability, and a brighter future for all.