A group of citizens led by prominent figures have distanced themselves from recent unrest in Bahrain and pledged to stand united with the leadership.

“What happened does not represent us, neither does it reflect our orientations or interests – security, stability and allegiance to the leadership,” said the group led by Haj Ahmed Mansour Al Ali, Hameed bin Abd Ali Al Nooh and Abdulnabi Al Sho’ala.

They voiced their stand as they were received by His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa. The group expressed its support for the measures undertaken by the government to overcome the crisis.

They also lauded HRH the Premier’s open-door policy and keenness to build bridges and reach out to citizens.

“This played a crucial role, enabling Bahrain to emerge from the critical situation it confronted and rally popular support,” they said.

HRH the Premier addressed them, urging them to resist any attempts to subvert national security and stability and undermine unity.

“Let your voices be heard – strongly and clearly – in calling for national unity and rejecting sectarianism and subversive attempts,” he told them.

He described Bahrainis as one unified people, hailing their centuries-old amity and peaceful coexistence. “All attempts to fuel sectarianism in Bahrain and drive wedges between people have completely failed,” he said.

“Bahrain has never experienced any sectarian divide – and it will never do, God willing,” he said.

He hailed citizens’ consciousness and firm belief in their unity. 'We are one people, not two, living in the same home – Bahrain – led by His Majesty King Hamad,” he said.

HRH the Premier lauded constructive initiatives aimed at mending rifts and healing wounds caused by the recent unrest.-TradeArabia News Service