Leading Opposition Politician Acquitted in Bahrain
Yesterday, the third and final charge leveled against Matar Matar, a former MP and leading member of Al-Wefaq party, for taking part in “unlawful” anti-government activity, was dropped. Matar had been charged with undermining public security by assembling with a group of more than five people, his first two charges being: calling for regime change and spreading rumours linked to pro-democracy protests. ”The last charge against me has been dropped,” said Matar.
In related news, leading pro-democracy activist Zainab al-Khawaja was released from custody. Upon her release from detention Khawaja said ”we are not going to give up. Whose determination is stronger – the people’s or the dictatorship? Only time will tell.” Meanwhile, clashes took place in Jidhafs, an area outside Manama, after the funeral of Hussein al-Baqali. Al-Baqali’s family said he died from burns sustained during a tire-burning at anti-government protests last month. His family cited al-Baqali did not seek treatment at the hospital due to fear of arrest.
In other news, Mahmoud Cherif Bassiouni, leader of the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry, expressed support for the upcoming Formula One race in Bahrain, saying if offers a chance at unity “after all that happened in the last year.” Last year cancelling the event cost the Bahrain government an estimated £300m, but Bassiouni feels the event can start “promoting national healing and reconciliation.”
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Mr. charief Bassiouni is a great man and should advise his principal King Hamad to implement his recommendations. He should no advise for F1. whether sport heldin Bahainornot the Revolt is going. Mr. Bassiouni should aware who is Alkhalifa family or regime of their animosity and hatred toward the Shiite community and the Revolt against this decayed faimily will notbe eased. Mr. basiouni that enough of what you received of money from the blood ofthis deprived people. The FM commercial chief should know that he is coming to a barbarian and butchary regime or family and who deonstrate not kid but revolutionaries.