I recently received a phone call from Shura Council First Deputy Chairman Jamal Fakhro, who had an opinion, and a reaction, to what I had written in my column published on April 9.
Jamal who I respect, admire and appreciate very much, conveyed his point in a very pleasant way. Though I will not mention what he said, what I will say is that his words are greatly appreciated and that he has every right to communicate to me his point of view on the subject.
He had some reservations on what I had said in the article and I humbly took in what he had to say about my writings.
The most important issue here is the discussion that took place between us. Regardless of agreements or differences, the mutual respect we share and the healthy discussion we had emerged the winner. Our dialogue and exchange of views were very cordial but we both stuck to our guns and defended our own views.
At the end of the call, he urged me to continue writing and shed light on issues that will help bring about a change to our country and its community.
I told His Excellency that most officials in Bahrain do not bother to respond as he did and do not ever take seriously ideas and suggestions. This, I think, is a serious shortcoming and a negative aspect in our community. We never agree with one another and do not accept each other’s views. We must learn to accept suggestions from citizens, columnists and writers, since these can very often be constructive and helpful.
I believe a successful official is one who takes others’ views into account and examines and applies them wherever feasible and applicable.
I would like to appeal to concerned officials to take a serious look at what is being written in the Press and at public opinion and work in the belief that when we all work together, we can change the culture in our society. The results of this are sure to be positive.
His Royal Highness the Prime Minister has always urged ministers and senior officials to ensure communication with citizens through the Press and of the need to build bridges of trust and co-operation to find solutions to citizens’ problems.
We should follow his lead in letter and spirit.
ztawfeeqi@gmail.com