The Office of His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, today issued a statement underlining that local newspapers and websites had failed to communicate correct and accurate information regarding the issuance of ‘Marriage Identification Cards’ as replacements to ‘Marriage Certificates’.
Through the statement Sharjah Government highlighted that it respects the privacy and freedom of all its residents. Additionally, it provided precise information and explanation for the misleading stories published.
The Government also asked the media to refrain from publishing inaccurate information that creates confusion among readers. Moreover, media was cautioned to be more vigilant on its reportage and was asked to abstain from unjust criticism of government or private entities. Publications were also directed to gather confirmed and solid information prior to publishing.
The statement also clarified that the Sharjah Sharia Court issues ‘marriage identification cards’ in-line with the rules and regulations of the UAE Ministry of Justice while Sharjah Government authorities including Sharjah Police were not responsible for the issuance of the cards.
Sharjah Media Centre, the communication arm of the Government of Sharjah, stated that all governmental agencies in Sharjah, respect the rights and freedoms of individuals as well as their privacy. In addition, it called for the community to display judiciousness in their action and to ensure that they conformed to the general manners and etiquettes of Sharjah’s culture.
His Excellency Counselor Salim Matar Al Hosany, Head of Sharjah Sharia Court, said: “The marriage identification card is issued by the court under the directives of the Ministry of Justice in the UAE. The card is provided free of charge and is not mandatory. No penalties are applied to residents for not holding the card. The card will soon be issued by all federal courts in the UAE.”
“The goal of this card is to keep all information mentioned in the marriage certificate confidential as these certificates carry many sensitive details. The card is an easy-to-use identification that will act on behalf of the marriage certificates and will make it easier for residents.”
The card contains the photo of the couple as well as some basic information such as the date of marriage and names of both spouses.
His Excellency, Brigadier Abdullah Mubarak Al Dukhan, Vice-President of Sharjah Police, said: “In line with the Ministry of Interior’s strategy we aim to protect all individuals and assure them of their freedom; we are here to look after the security of the community. Questioning an individual without a valid reason or inquiry is considered a violation. Sharjah Police is a responsible institution that cares and respects all residents’ freedom and privacy. Police officers will only question residents about their companions, particularly while in a car. This step is taken only on receiving an alert or for completing an investigation or witnessing suspicious activities that could lead to a crime.”
