Thousands Attempt to Return to Pearl Roundabout

Thousands of pro-democracy Bahrainis are marching to the Pearl Roundabout in the capital city of Manama. The Roundabout was the focal point of protests last year, but has been inaccessible due to increased security. During this most recent march, reports said ”security forces have fired tear gas and stun grenades at protesters,” and overall security has increased as the government deployed thousands more to quell protests. Clashes between security and protesters has increased in the days leading up to the one year anniversary of the uprisings (February 14), “with teenagers throwing petrol bombs and iron bars, drawing accusations from pro-government figures that the opposition is using violence to wrest political concessions.” However, Sheikh Ali Salman, a leading opposition member, urged peace and said, ”Believe me, our case is not throwing petrol bombs… We should not be dragged through that door … We should stick to our right to protest anywhere and any time. Don’t be dragged into violent action.”

Meanwhile, Amnesty International released a statement condemning the lack of reform the government has actually implemented following the results of the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry (BICI) report. “The fact is that it has still not delivered in the most important areas,” said Hassiba Hadj Sahraoui, the group’s deputy director for the Middle East and North Africa. The group has also called on the Bahrain government to allow peaceful protests to commemorate the February 14th anniversary. Additionally, the Bahrain government announced it will stop issues visas on arrival to citizens of countries who do not provide those same privileges to Bahraini citizens. An official stated, “this comes following the violations of some citizens from other countries to facilities provided for them when attaining an entry visa at various entry and exit points.”