The Ulema, sheikhs and other leading members of Al-Qatif Governorate have slammed the recent riots in the region and pledged their loyalty to the government. They said they want the governorate to be safe and secure. This was during their meeting with Prince Muhammad Bin Fahd, Emir of the Eastern Province, at the governorate's court on Monday. Prince Muhammad said the citizens of Al-Qatif are known for their loyalty to their leadership. “In line with the directives of King Abdullah, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Crown Prince Naif Bin Abdul Aziz, Deputy Premier and Minister of Interior, the state is determined to ensure the safety and security of citizens. It will not allow any group of people, no matter how small in number, to disrupt security in the region.” “The state is concerned about all its citizens,” he added. Sheikh Mansour Al-Salman said the reception by the Emir was not a strange event at all. He told Okaz/Saudi Gazette that the state, thanks to Almighty Allah, was always concerned about the welfare of citizens. The government also treats all citizens equally, he said. Al-Salman said the Ulema and sheikhs were determined to tackle anyone trying to harm the country and its people. Sheikh Muhammad Al-Jirani, President of the Inheritance Court in Al-Qatif, said: “We are working hand-in-hand with the state.” He told Okaz/Saudi Gazette that safeguarding the nation was one of the priorities of every Muslim. He said Prince Muhammad Bin Fahd heard that everyone at the event rejects those who try to cause trouble in the country. He said the state has done a great deal for the economic growth of Al-Qatif and other cities in the Kingdom. Sheikh Hussein Al-Suwailih also expressed his support for the government. “The rulers of this country are concerned about all the people and they follow an open-door policy, for which the Kingdom is well-known. The citizens of Al-Qatif pledge their loyalty to the country and its leadership. They also want to fight all those who want to harm the country,” he said. __
