Need cooperation ‘without exception’

TDT | Manama

Bahrain’s Interior Minister yesterday called on all to exercise extreme caution by offering cooperation “without exception” in a bid to combat further spread of the coronavirus. “Not caring and ignorance” will only lead to aggravating the situation, the minister warned, as the coronavirus or Covid-19 infection is “more serious and bigger than any other challenges” in hand. There is a need for “changing some practices in society” and to give priority to the general interest, the minister said adding: “We are going through situations that require reinforcement of national spirit and community partnership.” “Your national role today is to follow up the implementation of health instructions in the community, each according to their capability, speciality and responsibility.”

“Bahrain, with its small size, makes the solution more comprehensive, and the procedures are firmer. Cooperation of all reduces the intensity of the problem,” said General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa. Shaikh Rashid also reminded the participants on the “need for unifying social, media and cultural efforts out of the sense of responsibility of society to deal with this danger.” The minister was meeting religious scholars, media personalities, editors-in-chief, businessmen, owners of Majalises and heads of sports clubs and youth centres. The discussion was also part of the ongoing follow up of HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, on steps to prevent the outbreak. Bahrain’s first Covid-19 case was detected after a “citizen arriving from Iran was suspected of having contracted the virus based on emerging symptoms”.

Since its outbreak, the United Arab Emirates has reported 13 coronavirus cases, Kuwait has recorded 43 and Oman is at four cases. Interior Minister further urged all to remain extremely careful during religious and other gatherings and cooperate with authorities for best organising religious occasions and public meetings. “It’s important to seek information from official sources and avoid exploiting social media to spread rumours that could harm security and civil peace,” the minister told the meeting.