Federal Government concerned by court ruling against Bahraini opposition leader

A Federal Foreign Office Spokesperson issued the following statement today (31 May) concerning a Bahraini court ruling against Sheikh Ali Salman, the secretary-general of the Al‑Wefaq opposition party.

“We are dismayed by this harsh ruling against the leader of the opposition party. There are serious doubts as to whether the proceedings complied with principles of due process. It is to be feared that this decision will additionally complicate the resumption of national dialogue.

The process of reconciliation between Shiites and Sunnis in Bahrain must be continued. Long‑term stability and prosperity in Bahrain can only be achieved on the basis of the rule of law, pluralism and respect for human rights. This includes the right to freedom of expression.”

Background information:

On 30 May, Sheikh Ali Salman, secretary-general of Al‑Wefaq, the prime opposition party in Bahrain, was sentenced to nine years imprisonment by a court of appeal. This is a considerable increase on the original sentence of four years. Salman had been charged with promoting forceful change of the political regime, inciting hatred of foreigners, inciting disobedience and insulting the government. Sheikh Ali Salman has already served one and a half years in prison.

from
http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/Presse/Meldungen/2016/160531_Urteil_Bahrain.html?nn=479796