.jpg?20260621')
World Press Freedom Day this year, on the theme, “the Press without fear or favour”, coincided with the fifth anniversary of my first column as a contributor at Al Bilad newspaper.
It was five years ago on this day that I embarked on a mission to try and bring to the notice of the authorities and the readers topics on public affairs and everything else that mattered, in a bid to create more prosperity and development.
His Majesty King Hamad has often stressed on the freedom of the Press and the power of responsible reporting and I can say with a lot of pride that throughout my experience as a columnist, I have never been reprimanded or put under pressure for any article I have written.
This means a lot to any writer and is evidence that our wise leadership believes and trusts all journalists and opinion writers as long as they are objective, professional and credible.
Bahrain’s democratic climate guarantees free expression of opinion without favouritism or personal interest and with complete independence.
This is what His Majesty affirmed when he spoke about an independent Press and a responsible, free media being the most important national gains since the launch of the reform project.
His Majesty also said freedom of expression and opinion is guaranteed without restrictions or intimidation since it strengthens national cohesion.
The Press plays an important role in translating the aspirations of the leadership, addressing issues about developmental and social gains, and writing along the principle of respect and coexistence among people of Bahrain.
The Press also receives unlimited support from His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, who continuously monitors efforts of journalists. The speech of His Royal Highness on the occasion also spoke of the government’s support for the Press and the media.
The Prime Minister also said the Press in Bahrain continues to be on the frontline with its sincere stand that contributes to increasing public awareness. He also spoke of Bahraini writers and journalists who write with honesty and sincerity.
It is also a matter of great pride and honour that the Prime Minister uses the occasion to patronise an event to honour all journalists to encourage and support their efforts.
We should also not forget the pivotal role played by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier, who has taken it upon himself the challenging task of confronting the coronavirus pandemic. Bahrain has achieved unparalleled success in this regard.
Through this column, I request all ministers and officials to read every word we write so that we can all contribute and make Bahrain great.
We writers always give creative proposals and ideas that are worth considering. We offer constructive criticism that is key to the success and development of Bahrain.
We do this because Bahrain deserves the very best.
ztawfeeqi@gmail.com
&uuid=(email))