Consumers must stop boycotting stores to save Bahrain's economy, a leading businessman has warned. It is important that all groups move on rather than jeopardise the country's future, says Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry vice-chairman Abdulhameed Al Kooheji.
"It is a known fact now that there is division in our society. We cannot live in a half-divided country and need to take that difficult step to move forward," he said. Mr. Kooheji was among guests at a conference to discuss how to curb street violence. "It is important to live together like brothers and friends like we all used to live rather than the situation of separation now," he said. "Businesses were last year hit because of the unfortunate incidents. "We all should think as Bahrainis to bring together everyone and stop these boycott calls."
Bahraini entrepreneur and Bahrain Businesswomen's Society co-ordination and follow-up committee head Afnan Al Zayani said living in harmony was the only way forward. "It is a deep, painful wound, but Bahrain's people have the will to integrate and love each other," she said.
Ms. Al Zayani highlighted the polarised nature of Bahraini society and its effects during a speech at the event. "Law and order should be enforced to avoid clashes among citizens which will affect the social fabric of our society," she warned. "We can rebuild the economy or a building, but it is the trust and confidence of citizens that is more important to regain at this stage. "We all need to go back and reach a consensus to show the real texture of all components of our society."
