The Islamic Endowments Affairs Council’s General Directorate of Jaafari Affairs has issued its regulations for the Ashoora season based on the outcomes of its annual meeting with heads of ma’atams and Hussainiyas, and following co-ordination with relevant official authorities.
Under the regulations, outdoor mourning processions will begin from the evening of the sixth day of Muharram on the Islamic calendar and continue until the 10th day of the month.
Only officially approved ma’atams are permitted to organise processions, and each procession must clearly display the name of its ma’atam throughout its route.
Processions that are not affiliated with a specific ma’atam are prohibited.
The regulations also stipulate that processions must conclude no later than midnight, except in Manama, where they may continue until 2am.
Organisers are required to respect public tranquility and ensure the smooth flow of traffic.
The measures aim to provide an appropriate environment for the observance of religious rituals, maintain public order, ensure the highest standards of security and safety, and facilitate smooth traffic flow.
The directorate said the regulations are intended to organise mourning processions in a manner that preserves the sanctity of the occasion and reflects Bahrain’s civilised image.
It urged heads of ma’atams and Hussainiyas to ensure compliance with the instructions.
The directorate stressed the need to adhere to the safety requirements and conditions issued by relevant authorities.
It also prohibited the display or circulation of political slogans, chants or writings, as well as materials originating from outside the kingdom.
In addition, it banned the placement of banners and black cloth on public roads, with such displays restricted to the immediate vicinity of ma’atams.
Ma’atams are further required to obtain permits for guesthouses (mudhifs) and comply with all health regulations.
Direct cooking at these sites is prohibited, and all hospitality tents must be removed by the Muharram 15.
Capital Governorate Police Director General Brigadier Isa Hassan Al Qattan visited a number of ma’atams across the governorate as part of efforts to strengthen community partnership and promote direct engagement with citizens.
During the visits, Brigadier Al Qattan met ma’atam officials and residents, where he reviewed their needs and listened to their observations and suggestions.
He affirmed the directorate’s commitment to maintaining effective communication with all segments of society.
The visits form part of the Interior Ministry’s approach to strengthening community engagement and closely identifying citizens’ needs, supporting effective partnership between security authorities and members of the public, and promoting the values of co-operation and shared responsibility.
&uuid=(email))