HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister marks the 100th anniversary of Bahraini women’s participation in municipal elections
His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, today marked the 100th anniversary of Bahraini women’s participation in municipal elections, held under his patronage at the Manama Municipality building.
His Royal Highness affirmed that the Kingdom of Bahrain has remained steadfast in its historic commitment to female empowerment and continues to advance their role through national development plans. This commitment has been further realised through the Kingdom’s comprehensive development led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, particularly through expanding women’s participation and strengthening their representation in key decision-making positions, reflecting confidence in their capabilities and competence.
His Royal Highness also highlighted the support of HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Consort of His Majesty the King and President of the Supreme Council for Women (SCW), as a fundamental pillar in advancing Bahraini women’s progress and representation across various fields.
HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister commended the SCW’s pioneering role, under Her Royal Highness’s leadership, in supporting Bahraini women and empowering them to achieve further successes and accomplishments.
HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister highlighted the importance of municipal work, and the progress Bahraini women have made in this field through their service on municipal councils, their fulfilment of national responsibilities, and their contributions to the public interest.
His Royal Highness noted that this historic commemoration marks a significant milestone for Bahrain. It also honours earlier generations who established Bahrain’s institutions and strengthened its tradition of national endeavour, while recognising women’s enduring contributions alongside men in shouldering responsibility and serving the nation.
HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister expressed his pride in the progress and achievements of Bahraini women across various fields, as well as their continued contributions and dedication to advancing the Kingdom and realising the aspirations of its people.
During the ceremony, His Royal Highness honoured the late Fatima Al Zayani, who participated in the municipal elections in the 1950s. The recognition was accepted on her behalf by Fawaz Ebrahim Al Zayani. His Royal Highness also honoured women who served as members of municipal councils and the Capital Trustees Council between 2002 and 2026.
HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister went on to tour the accompanying exhibition, which showcased key historical milestones in Bahraini women’s participation in municipal elections.
For his part, HE Eng. Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, expressed his gratitude to HM the King for his continued support for Bahraini women. His Excellency also thanked His Royal Highness for patronising the celebration, noting that the event reflects a commitment to highlighting significant milestones in the Kingdom of Bahrain’s history, recognising the pioneering contributions of Bahraini women across various fields of national endeavour, and continuing to strengthen their presence and active participation in positions of responsibility and decision-making.
His Excellency commended the pioneering role and sustained efforts of HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa in supporting the advancement and empowerment of Bahraini women and enhancing their participation across various sectors. His Excellency highlighted the significant achievements resulting from Her Royal Highness’s initiatives and the work of the SCW, which have contributed to promoting equal opportunities, strengthening women’s representation within national institutions, and highlighting their contributions to legislative and municipal affairs.
HE Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, HE General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior, HH Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Minister of the Prime Minister’s Court, HH Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, HE Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy, along with several senior officials, were also in attendance.