Governor accused of dividing Bahrain along sectarian lines
http://archive.gulfnews.com/region/Bahrain/10092752.html
12/29/2006 12:01 AM | By Habib Toumi, Bureau Chief
Manama: The Governor of Muharraq was yesterday accused of trying to foam sectarianism following his controversial decision that only original families from the governorate could purchase property in Bahrain’s second largest city.
The controversy developed out of a statement on Monday by Governor Salman Bin Hindi that all property transactions in Muharraq needed his personal endorsement and that he would ensure that Muharraq would remain inhabited only by its original families.
Governor accused of dividing Bahrain along sectarian lines
http://archive.gulfnews.com/region/Bahrain/10092752.html
12/29/2006 12:01 AM | By Habib Toumi, Bureau Chief
Manama: The Governor of Muharraq was yesterday accused of trying to foam sectarianism following his controversial decision that only original families from the governorate could purchase property in Bahrain’s second largest city.
The controversy developed out of a statement on Monday by Governor Salman Bin Hindi that all property transactions in Muharraq needed his personal endorsement and that he would ensure that Muharraq would remain inhabited only by its original families.
“No one can accuse me of sectarian discrimination because I am closer to the Shiites in Muharraq than Al Wefaq Society,” he said in his statement referring to the Shiite political and religious formation that has 17 deputies, but none from Muharraq, in the Parliament.
His remark revived concerns about an alleged plot by Iran to purchase property in Sunni-dominated Muharraq to offer to its supporters and alter the island’s demography.
The claim was promptly denied by the Iranian embassy in Bahrain and was blasted by Shiites as a cheap attack on their loyalty to the kingdom.
“The Governor’s statement is dangerous and controversial because it strikes at the very heart of genuine citizenship. The government has allowed non-Bahrainis to own property in Bahrain, but Bahrainis are denied such rights. Such a policy is totally wrong and would have grave implications for national unity,” activist Abdul Nabi Al Ekri said in a press statement.
For Bahrain Human Rights Society leader Abdullah Al Durazi, the Governor was acting against Bahrain’s cohesion and integration.
“The decision violates fundamental rights and we might take up the case with the competent international human rights commissions,” he said.
Waad society leader Ebrahim Shareef said the Governor did not respect the constitution which allowed citizens to own property.
“People affected by the decision should take legal action against the Governor because the law does not give the government the right to say who owns property and where.”
But Bin Hindi said his remark came after residents complained realty prices had risen forcing them to seek residence elsewhere.