THE statement made by Bahraini King Hamad Bin Essa Al-Khalifa when he received the fact-finding committee’s report has drawn a line between two Bahraini eras. This line can be the new standard for many Arab countries clamoring for genuine reforms and a wise ruler capable of overcoming the worst crisis without the uncalculated adventures witnessed in some countries lately. Bahrain is the only country in the Third World that has resorted to an independent investigative committee formed through a royal decree and national will, away from regional or international pressure, to investigate the events the Kingdom has experienced over the last months. The committee has also been asked to put forward recommendations to specify responsibilities and guarantees that there will be no return to the dark period.

The Bahraini King has declared clearly and frankly the acceptance of the investigation results despite the criticisms. Bahrain may be the only country in the Third World that affirmed, through the highest authority, its commitment to implement the recommendations of an investigative panel. The King has even instructed the government to immediately start the implementation, in addition to the formation of a national committee to execute the recommendations. This step ascertains that the country’s interest will not be blocked by anyone’s immunity, and those proven to have abused their power will have to pay for their acts.
The transparency and independence of the committee have refuted all suspicions raised by the prejudiced sides. These sides have deliberately raised doubts on the committee to prevent the fall of their masks, which they used as cover in their desperate attempt to implement an agenda that has been exposed. An attempt to instigate sectarian sedition has been foiled even if they used several slogans aimed at pushing the Kingdom towards security crises. All this has been extinguished through the royal prudence.

The countries which attempted to intervene in Bahraini affairs must realize they can never weaken the patriotism of people united under one flag in spite of the differences in opinions. This means those who participated in the regrettable events that Bahrain has witnessed must repent and fear God for the sake of their country. As for those who have been tricked by mobs of destruction, they should know they still have a chance to revive their patriotic spirit and safeguard their country from foreign intervention, while maintaining their unity.
The Bahraini leadership has reiterated its keenness to implement reforms and realize its development objectives, as was evident in King Hamad’s recent speech. The leadership has not closed doors against objective and constructive criticisms, because “this is the only way to have national consensus and rectify defects caused by the recent events. Through this, we can achieve our reform goals — the best way to rectify errors”, said HH the Prime Minister Prince Khalifa Bin Salman.

There is no longer any fear for Bahrain, which has become stronger. It has actually started reaping the fruits of King Hamad’s wise rule in the past years as he continues to guide the Kingdom towards the age of democratic institutes established in accordance with the Constitution. These institutes do not differentiate between citizens and operate on the basis of genuine national work void of any foreign, sectarian or ethnic influence.