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Bahrain's Crown Prince Salman Al Khalifa appointed new Prime Minister

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The Crown Prince of Bahrain, Prince Salman bin Hamad, is now Prime Minister.

The Crown Prince of Bahrain, Prince Salman bin Hamad, is now Prime Minister.

Manama, Bahrain - This follows the death of Crown Prince Salman's great uncle, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, who was the world's longest-serving PM.

Published: Wed 11 Nov 2020, 11:52 PM

Updated: Thu 12 Nov 2020, 4:23 AM

  • By
  • AFP

Bahrain's crown prince, Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, was appointed prime minister on Wednesday after the death of his great uncle, who had held the post since independence in 1971.

Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the world's longest-serving prime minister, died at the age of 84 while undergoing medical treatment in the United States, state media announced.

After studies in the United States and Britain -- including a master's degree from Cambridge University -- Salman has served as first vice-prime minister and is deputy supreme commander of the Bahrain Defence Force.

King Hamad issued a royal decree appointing his son as head of the Council of Ministers with immediate effect, the Bahrain News Agency (BNA) said.

Prince Khalifa's burial will take place after his remains have been transported home, and in line with novel coronavirus restrictions, only a limited number of relatives will attend.

The country will hold a week of official mourning, during which flags will be flown at half-mast. Government ministries and departments will be closed for three days.



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