National watchdog slams flawed report

An “Aljazeera” report on the conditions of prisons in Bahrain was dismissed as lacking professionalism.

“The report aired on “Aljazeera”, is based on a theoretical study, which is difficult to evaluate, as well as allegations”, said National Institution of Human Rights (NIHR) President Said bin Mohammed Al-Fihani.

He said that the channel did not abide by the principles of impartiality and integrity, having failed to communicate with the national watchdog to verify the content of the report.

The Kingdom of Bahrain, he said, set up the watchdog as an independent and impartial entity to consolidate and protect human rights in compliance with the Paris Principles that govern national institutions.

“The national watchdog is performing its role, as stipulated in the constitution and the law, to address any human rights violations in total independence and transparency”, he said.

He reiterated the NIHR follow-up of the situation of inmates at all detention centres, including Jau central prison, through announced and unannounced visits.

Al-Fihani urged all media outlets, including “Aljazeera”, to abide by the code of the conduct, observe accuracy, objectivity and national responsibility before supplying their audience with flawed information which are derived from unknown sources of incredible reports.

He reiterated NIHR readiness to reply to all queries, adding that all channels of communication with the national watchdog remain open.

Source: Fana News