BJA Chairman on Press Law amendments: Advanced chapter in the development of national press
Manama, Oct. 26 (BNA): The Kingdom of Bahrain is entering an advanced chapter in the development of its national press, supported by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s steadfast commitment to freedom of opinion and expression and his continuous support for empowering journalists, said the Chairman of the Bahrain Journalists Association (BJA).
The BJA Chairman Isa Al Shaiji said that the Shura Council’s approval of the amendments to the Press, Printing and Publishing Law of 2002 reinforces Bahrain’s legislative development to meet national aspirations. He said the step aligns with priorities outlined by His Majesty in the address at the opening of the fourth session of the sixth legislative term of the National Assembly.
Al Shaiji noted that Bahrain’s press has undergone notable transformation under the leadership of His Majesty the King, with greater space for diverse perspectives and a stronger focus on freedom, transparency and responsibility in journalism. He added that this approach strengthens the role of the press as an active partner in national development and in serving the public interest.
He also highlighted the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in ensuring that the national press remains engaged with decision-making and government communication, under principles of transparency and accountability as part of Team Bahrain.
The BJA Chairman said the amendments, which were also approved earlier by the Council of Representatives, support freedom of the press while upholding professional standards. He added that the updated law removes imprisonment for journalists, regulates digital media, and aligns Bahrain’s media sector with international developments in the information environment.
Al Shaiji, speaking on behalf of Bahrain’s media community, thanked His Majesty the King for his support for press freedom and for journalists in carrying out their duties, and expressed appreciation to His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister for His Royal Highness’s continued guidance in supporting the media sector.
He also thanked the Government, represented by the Ministry of Information, for its constructive cooperation with the Bahrain Journalists Association in reaching consensus on the proposed amendments, and acknowledged the dedicated efforts of the Chairs and members of both Councils in approving the amendments, which reflect their commitment to supporting Bahrain’s development and progress under the leadership of His Majesty the King.
