Washington, The American magazine “The National Interest” has published an opinion piece by Bahrain’s Ambassador to the U.S. Shaikh Abdullah bin Rashid Al Khalifa.

The piece, “The Kingdom of Bahrain is heading to the polls”, highlights the approach of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa that promotes respect for the principles of democracy and human rights and emphasizes the Kingdom’s commitment to protecting the environment, pluralism and democracy.

Based on the directives of HM King Hamad and HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, the Ambassador indicated that the Kingdom is preparing to vote in the parliamentary elections for the sixth legislative term.

He referred the record number of women candidates for parliamentary seats that confirms the opportunities available to enhance women’s representation in politics.

Shaikh Abdulla also referred to the 2018 elections, and its turnout of 67% that confirms the success of HM King Hamad’s approach.

The presence of voters from all religious groups and sects was reflected in electing a woman, Fawzia bint Abdullah Zainal, as Speaker of the Council of Representatives.

Shaikh Abdullah reviewed the effective role of the Bahraini Parliament and noted that it had been supporting the comprehensive development process of the government and promoting democracy.

He also touched on the similarities between the Bahraini parliament and the US Congress in placing economic issues at the top of their priorities.

Shaikh Abdullah noted that the elections date for Bahrainis abroad coincided with the midterm elections for the US Senate and House of Representatives and pointed to the voters’ awareness of the importance of exercising their civil and democratic rights in both countries,.

Elections will play in promoting the development process in the two countries, he said.

Source: Bahrain News Agency