BJA concerned over sacked journalists

Manama : Bahrain Journalists Association (BJA) has expressed its concerns over the conditions of the recently suspended Al Wasat daily’s staff. Al Wasat was suspended by Information Affairs Ministry on June 4. The newspaper management had informed its 160 staff recently that their work contracts would be terminated following the suspension.

The association confirmed its solidarity with the sacked employees saying they should receive all their rights as per the labour law in the Kingdom.

BJA also expressed its regret of the procedure of laying-off its staff after working for 15 years in the field of journalism in Bahrain.

“We pledge to coordinate with Labour and Social Development Ministry to find alternative jobs that fit the qualifications of the sacked employees,” BJA’s statement read, at the same time confirming that “the association’s doors are open for any journalist who require any legal consultations, assistance or to hire an attorney”.

As reported on Monday, Al Wasat informed its staff that their work permits will be terminated due to financial issues that are claimed to have been created because of the ministry’s decision to suspend the paper.

It’s noteworthy that the Ministry had lodged a complaint against the journal in the Public Prosecution over its “violation of the law by publishing what would stir division within the community and undermine the Kingdom of Bahrain’s relations with other countries”.