MANAMA: Minister of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa called for the need to avoid hatred discourse and inflammatory rhetoric that legitimise violence, spark disgraceful sectarianism and mobilise people using atonement fatwas that sow division among members of the same country and followers of the same religion.
He said that co-existence and respect of diversity and pluralism require emphasis on the sanctity of houses of worship and freedom of exercise of religious rituals.
“The identity of this country was based on adherence to Islam, in all its sects, belonging to the Arab nation and GCC citizenship, and respects for the principles of pluralism and co-existence, under the leadership of His Majesty the King, the Head of state and its High representative, Protector of religion, and the symbol of its national unity.”
He urged khatibs (orators) and clerics to be committed to the precepts of the Islamic Religion, foster moderation and the dialogue approach, promote respect of human life, emphasise the sanctity of blood and property and confirm human brotherhood, in general, and rights of non-Muslims, in particular, and prohibit any attempts to violate them, in line with the principles approved by the Islamic Shari’a and international conventions.
He stressed the need to distance Islamic platforms from interfering into the domestic affairs of other countries, and avoid exploiting the religious sermons to serve personal or factional political agendas.
He affirmed that the Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Ministry will continue monitoring the religious discourse and take all the necessary legal procedures to protect houses of worship to ensure that they are not used to fuel sectarianism.
He said the ministry will ensure that religious platforms remain venues where the principles of co-existence and hope are promoted.