Manama, Ali bin Al Shaikh Abdulhussain Al Asfoor, Northern Governor held the annual meeting with the heads of maatams (Community Centres) to discuss preparations for Ashoora and track requirements and suggestions. Speaking at the meeting, the governor said that preparations align with the support of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for ensuring the free practice of religious rituals for all citizens and residents in the kingdom. The Northern Governor conveyed to the attendees the greetings of General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, the Interior Minister. He pointed out that the goal of the meeting was to determine the needs of maatams in terms of services, recommendations, and solutions for challenges that might occur during the season. The governor praised the role of the maatams' heads and their collaboration with government agencies and the governorate's service coordination committee, which led to the success of the previous seasons. Brigadier Saleh Rashid Fahad Al Dossari, Director G eneral of the Northern Governorate Police Directorate, underscored the importance of holding Hussaini rituals in designated areas only within the set timeframe, with prior coordination. Brigadier General Ali Mohammed Jassim Al Kubaisi, Director General of Civil Defence, emphasised the importance of cooperating with Civil Defence to ensure the safety of the mourners and attendees in the event of an emergency. Dr. Mohamed Abdulmajeed Alawadhi, Director of Public Health at the Ministry of Health, said that it is essential to ensure the safety of food by keeping it in closed places at suitable temperatures. The attendees praised the role of the Northern Governorate in cooperating with the heads of maatams to maintain security and public order during Ashoora. Source: Bahrain News Agency