Manama, Aug. 27. (BNA) – Chairman of the Shura Council’s Foreign Affairs, Defence and National Security Committee Hon. Dr. Salah Ali today called upon citizens to participate actively in the September by-elections in order to fill in the vacant seats of the Representatives Council, « the House of the People ».

In this context, he stressed the importance of exercising one’s constitutional rights through voting or running for elections, urging citizens to respect difference and avoid threatening others or accusing them of treason, which, he asserted, is not in compliance with the teachings of Islam or the Bahraini people’s deep-rooted genuine values of tolerance and cohesion.

Hon. Dr. Salah also pointed out that holding by-elections after the regretful events that gripped the kingdom recently is a living proof that the reform and democracy in the kingdom are on the right track, indicating that « participation and boycotting are two democratic options that should be respected. »

« Although participation is the basis of democratic practice, those who choose not to participate should not try to impose their will on the others,» he added.

He also asserted that political associations’ decision to boycott elections have proved unsuccessful in many countries, as it conveys the wrong messages , leaves the political and legislative arenas for others and represents the boycotters’ failure to take part in the decision-making and nation-building .

Hon. Dr. Salah also expressed hope that citizens contribute positively to the nation-building process, and called for the need to avoid using mosques and houses of worship for political agendas, asserting that « the platform of Prophet Mohammed, Peace Be Upon Him, should be a venue of unity, virtue and brotherhood. »

Hon. Dr. Salah also stressed that every constituency should be represented by its residents, which, he said, will make elections more credible, affirming that the reform and progress marches in the kingdom will continue un-wavered.