Journalists and media professionals in Bahrain yesterday elected Bahrain Journalists’ Association (BJA) board of directors for the 2025-2027 term in a transparent and orderly vote.
Al-Ayam newspaper Editor-in-Chief Isa Al Shaiji was re-elected unopposed as president of the association.
The following eight board members were elected: Rashid Nabeel Al Hamer (112 votes), Mohammed Bahr (108), Rasha Al Ebrahim (105), Dr Lulwa Budalamah (102), Saud Al Jowder (101), Saeed Mohammed (99), Yasmeen Al Aqaidat (96), and Faisal Al Ali (92). Hind Ahmed Karam received 26 votes as an alternate. A total of 113 ballots were cast, including one invalid vote.
Attending the general assembly meeting, Communication Adviser to HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister Isa Al Hammadi praised the democratic process witnessed by the association, describing it as a reflection of the climate of freedom and democracy that characterises elections in Bahrain’s professional associations and organisations.
The winners expressed their gratitude for the confidence placed in them by their peers, pledging to continue supporting Bahraini women journalists, safeguarding professional interests, and keeping pace with rapid developments in the field to strengthen Bahrain’s national media role.
Speaking after his re-election, Mr Al Shaiji described the vote as “a historic milestone in the association’s journey and a new beginning that reflects the honourable image of Bahrain’s media community.”
He added that the board draws strength from the support of His Majesty the King for freedom of opinion and expression, and from HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, “who regard journalism and journalists in Bahrain as an integral part of Team Bahrain driving development with efficiency and competence.”
Commenting on the outcome, AlBilad Editor-in-Chief Moanes AlMardi underlined the association’s importance to journalists, noting the strong turnout and the commitment of every journalist to cast a vote. He pointed to the challenges facing the profession and expressed hope that the new Press law would further support and regulate the sector.
Al-Watan Editor-in-Chief Abdulla Elhamy, who chaired the vote-counting committee, praised the smooth conduct of the elections and described the day as an opportunity for colleagues to gather at their “home, the House of Journalists.”
The BJA’s general assembly convened in the morning after reaching the required quorum, in the presence of Isa Abdul Rahman, Media Adviser at HRH the Crown Prince’s Court, along with editors-in-chief, Information Affairs Ministry officials and journalists.
The assembly reviewed and approved the outgoing board’s administrative and financial reports before formally accepting its resignation to pave the way for the elections.
&uuid=(email))