Bahrain debunks allegations, defends human rights record

Geneva, Sep. 19 (BNA): Bahrain today exercised its right of reply in response to the fallacies, incoherencies and contradictions cited in the Swiss, Czech, Danish and Irish statements. Bahrain Permanent Representative to the United Nations and International organisations Dr. Youssef Abdulkarim addressed the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) under article 4 as part of the plenary discussions. Debunking the allegations, he regretted that the session failed to address issues of paramount importance, comprehensively, objectively and neutrally, beyond any politicization. He deplored that the UNHRC has been turned into a platform to criticize and attack Bahrain and cite negative insinuations without taking into account any of Bahrain’s clarifications and explanations which were cited repeatedly in a transparent and open process with all partners. “Bahrain will not pay heed to any voice that attempts to abate its resolve and discourage the Kingdom from moving forward”, he said. He reiterated Bahrain’s determination to continue the march unabated to consolidate and protect human rights, pursue the process of human rights cumulative achievements to ultimately serve all segments of Bahraini peace-loving society. Dr. Abdulkarim hit back of the wave of criticism, slamming the extent of politicization which is tainting the UNHRC agenda and corridors. “Any alignment to particular political stances or motives would rather complicate human rights issues in a manner which is not conducive to positive results”, he said. He warned that such detrimental approach would only invigorate and play in the hands of sectarian radical parties which would affect the march of development and prosperity in society. Dr. Abdulkarim dismissed the concerns which were cited in the above-mentioned statements as being inaccurate. “The detention of anyone in Bahrain is based on clear legal bases”, he said, adding that arrests result from violations of Bahrain’s penal code. Addressing the session, he said that freedom of expression and peaceful demonstrations are guaranteed in Bahrain’s constitution and national laws, in compliance with international standards. He defended Bahrain’s right to suspend any political society which commits an unlimited number of violations, advocates the systematic non-respect of the constitution, questions its legitimacy, seeks to undermine national security and stability and drive youth into the cauldron of bigotry, violence, sectarian-tainted mantra and fuel sectarian strife between social segments. “Such a society shall be held legally accountable under the supervision of independent and transparent judiciary that provides all guarantees of a fair trial”, he said, stressing the importance social security. He hit back at alleged arbitrary detentions, dismissing such claims as being baseless and untrue. “All detainees have been arrested for committing dangerous acts which are crimininalised and punishable by virtue of the constitution and law”, he said, adding that the law on nationality comply with international standards which are implemented in Bahrain. “It is unfair to oblige any government to exempt any individual from law enforcement under the pretext of his status”, he said, adding that no one is above the law. “This is what happens in any law-abiding country, a civilized society and state of law and institutions”, he said. Leveling accusations and sending negative messages, without any real of objective basis, would not serve human rights”, he said