Pledge to fight sectarianism
By GEOFFREY BEW
Published: 6th November 2006
A BAHRAINI blogger spearheading a national campaign against sectarianism is urging politicians to work together and introduce laws that criminalise discrimination. Mahmood Al Yousif is urging candidates to sign a pledge to enact laws and work towards stopping favouritism and inequality in all sectors of society.
Fifteen candidates from two political societies, the National Unity and National Democratic Action Society (Wa’ad), have already signed up to the proposal and based on the success of the campaign, he expects many more to follow.
Pledge to fight sectarianism
By GEOFFREY BEW
Published: 6th November 2006
A BAHRAINI blogger spearheading a national campaign against sectarianism is urging politicians to work together and introduce laws that criminalise discrimination. Mahmood Al Yousif is urging candidates to sign a pledge to enact laws and work towards stopping favouritism and inequality in all sectors of society.
Fifteen candidates from two political societies, the National Unity and National Democratic Action Society (Wa’ad), have already signed up to the proposal and based on the success of the campaign, he expects many more to follow.
“The aim is to get a unified Bahrain, a country where people can live in harmony with each other regardless of their religion or political affiliation,” said Mr Al Yousif.
“Bahrain cannot afford not to take this seriously if it is to survive in the modern world, concentrate on the development of the economy and unify the country behind non-sectarian issues.”
The blogger argues that favouritism and sectarianism is rife and has called on the government and the private sector to operate with transparency in the recruitment process.
“They should only appoint people based on their abilities and proven track record, regardless of other factors,” he said.
“When jobs become available they should be advertised adequately and candidates should be made to sit for aptitude tests for the job on offer.”
Mr Al Yousif said there should also be an oversight committee in the ministry or organisation which ensures that no favouritism occurs.
“This country will not go anywhere while sectarian thinking and favouritism are entrenched,” he said.
Earlier this month Mr Al Yousif began a campaign against sectarianism after designing and creating 100,000 buttons bearing the logo “No Shi’i, No Sunni, Just Bahraini!”.
The buttons are being distributed through the Piracy Unlimited stand in Dana Mall and through Frankie’s in Najibi Centre, Saar.
The campaign is gathering momentum.
“It is receiving tremendous support and a private press has committed to produce several thousand bumper stickers for the campaign,” said Mr Al Yousif.
“People are calling me to ask where they can collect these buttons, because they believe in the message of the campaign.
“So far we have collected two thirds of the campaign costs by free will with people donating money.
“A lot of politicians have also contacted me to get the pins distributed in their constituency.”
© Gulf Daily News
