Bahraini Premier: Popular participation in the by-elections

His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa paid tribute today to the people of Bahrain for their resolve to take part in the kingdom’s parliamentary by-elections. “Bahraini people’s determination to take part positively in the by-elections has asserted that we are on the right path toward a better future,” he said in a statement. "By massively turning up at polling centres, the Bahraini people have shown the world a civilizational image epitomizing the values of national belonging and underlined their resolve to be an active part in shaping a crucial phase in the history of national work on the basis of participation in decision making.” HRH the Prime Minister lauded the ambience of freedom and democracy which characterized the electoral process as well as citizens’ keenness to cast their ballots in order to help usher in a new chapter of democracy in Bahrain. He said the parliamentary by-elections which took place today is an unprecedented historical event and a democratic form in Bahrain. “The massive popular turnout has revealed citizens’ keenness to be partners in building Bahrain, boosting democracy and maintaining national unity and growth,” he stressed. "Bahrain’s civilizational and development achievements will be maximized over time thanks to a quantum and qualitative growth as the government is keen to build a better Bahrain,” HRH the Prime Minister emphasized. He also pledged to ensure security in the kingdom so as it remains an oasis of peace and stability. “Nothing will prevent us from providing protection to the nation and citizens,” he said commending the wise policies of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. These wise policies “have laid the solid basis for a modern state where citizens play a pivotal role in making decisions,” he added. “The Bahraini people have set a wonderful example of patriotism by rushing to take part in the by-elections in order to protect hard-won national achievements.” HRH the Prime Minister also asserted the government’s keenness to maintain cooperation with the legislative power so as to achieve citizens’ aspirations. “We are on the threshold of a new phase of national work which requires more cooperation between all parties. Regional challenges demand a new spirit of dedication to overcome obstacles,” he said, pointing out that fruitful cooperation between the executive and legislative powers is the optimum way to steer the nation in the right direction. He wished the parliament every success in being up to the confidence entrusted by the voters pledging every support from the government. He also thanked the elections’ executive committee as well as all those who contributed to success of the by-elections, including journalists, media persons and local, Arab and international correspondents.