• Home
• /
• World

Al Wefaq decision to boycott Bahrain commission decried

MANAMA - The decision of a leading political society of Bahrain to boycott the National Commission set up to implement the recommendations of an independent panel assigned to review unrest has been deplored by a top government official.

Al Wefaq National Islamic Society along with other opposition societies announced on Sunday their decision to stay away from the commission formed to implement the recommendations of the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry (BICI).

Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Minister, Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa, in a statement described the decision as reminiscent of Al Wefaq’s past negative stances. He cited its walkout from parliament and refusal to engage in national dialogue launched by Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander.

The decision also brings to mind Al Wefaq’s withdrawal from the National Consensus Dialogue and its boycott of the legislative by-elections, he said.

Shaikh Khalid described the BICI report as a defining moment in Bahrain’s history as it gauges the deplorable events which hit Bahrain and outlines a roadmap to address their aftermath.

He appealed to all parties to assume their responsibilities for the recommendations to be achieved — being a national trust and responsibility which must not be squandered.

shamada@khaleejtimes.com