…from beneath the crooked bough, witness 230 years of brutal tyranny by the al Khalifas come to an end
Random header image... Refresh for more!

Bahrain Updates #13 [Monday, May 2, 2011]: Workers of the World Celebrate May 1, International Labor Day…though not in Bahrain this year..

by Phlipn Pagee

———- Forwarded message ———-
From: Colin S. Cavell, Ph.D. <ccavell@gmail.com>
Date: Mon, May 2, 2011 at 1:33 AM
Subject: Bahrain Updates #13: Workers of the World Celebrate May 1, International Labor Day…though not in Bahrain this year…
To: "Colin S. Cavell, Ph.D. @ GMail" <ccavell@gmail.com>

"[T]he whole of human servitude is involved in the relation of the worker to production, and all relations of servitude are but modifications and consequences of this relation" (Marx, Economic and Philosophical Manuscripts of 1844).
Folks,
History time and again proves that capitalists enjoy stability and growth when their workers are satiated and feel free. Impose harsh restrictions on your labor force and you will reap dissension, rebellion, and shoddy production. As the old Scott Tissue Towel commercial put it in the 1930s: "Is your washroom breeding Bolsheviks? Employees lose respect for a company that fails to provide decent facilities for their comfort." Of course workers want more than just good hand towels. Like all human beings, workers want, at the very least, freedom of expression and freedom of association, rights guaranteed to all Americans by our Bill of Rights in the US Constitution.
Each year on May 1–that is International Labor Day–workers around the world march to renew their solidarity and advocate for their rights. Each year, for the past eight years at least, Bahraini workers marched by the thousands calling attention to their needs and advocating reform. I know these were joyous marches, as I participated in every one of them. However, this year in Bahrain the workers are silenced. Due to the imprisonment, beatings, torture, and deaths of anyone perceived as and/or suspected of supporting the democratic opposition in Bahrain, any attempt to participate in an annual Labor Day march this May first would be futile. Consequently, the annual Labor Day festivities have been cancelled.
We will likely not hear much about this silencing of workers in Bahrain; indeed, of late we are not hearing much at all about the crackdown of oppositional democratic forces in Bahrain. It appears as if a memo has been sent out warning the international media that this issue about Bahrain is just too hot to handle. One can imagine that it reads: "Don't you see: Bahrain is too hot to handle. The Al-Khalifa monarchy are our friends. They let us park our Navy boats in Bahrain. And, since we are still dependent on cheap and accessible Saudi Arabian oil, we need to keep the House of Saud intact in Riyadh, and if the other Gulf monarchs begin to crumble, then we'd have to deal with a democracy in Saudi Arabia, and who knows where oil prices will go then. As it is, all of the Gulf monarchs are totally dependent upon us currently for their survival, as their populations are adamantly opposed to their rule. So, you see, siding with the Gulf monarchs is good for the USA at the present time. So, SHUT UP and QUIT REPORTING on the absence of democracy in our Gulf ally countries."
Well, we all know that the subtleties of setting the media agenda in the west are not so clear-cut as the imagined memo above. Nonetheless, reporters are cognizant of the forces that exists, as well as their idiosyncracies and, hence, often self-censor what they report on, and this self-censorship is repeated on down the line. Chomsky and Herman described how this self-censorship works in their book Manufacturing Consent (1988), for those of you who are doubtful. Indeed, this self-censorship is what oppressive governments count on to maintain their control. But oftentimes with such silences, they blow up in our faces when the facts contradict the illusion of peace or stability. Such is the case with Bahrain.
Civil society has been fundamentally altered in Bahrain with the brutal crackdown by the regime forces since late February and especially following the "Declaration of National Safety" by the monarch on the Ides of March (yes, March 15th!). Arrests, beatings, torture, disappearances, killings are only some of the humiliations being faced by Bahrainis on a daily basis. In addition, we see the dismissal from their jobs of anyone suspected of supporting the opposition, the suspension of political parties–like the National Democratic Action Society (Wa'ad or "promise"), the destruction of Shia religious symbols, mosques, and ma'tams, and the theft, sexual abuse, and thuggery by regime forces against those deemed to be opponents of the King or, as the Bahraini media deem the monarchy: "the wise leadership". And, if you don't believe me, check it for yourself:
"Manama, March 22. (BNA) — The Representatives Council today expressed its full-fledged support for the measures taken by the wise leadership in order to ensure the security of the nation and the citizens, hailing Royal Decree 18/2011 issued by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on the declaration of a three-month State of National Safety" (http://www.bna.bh/portal/en/news/450559).
Americans led the way in turning against monarchy in the last quarter of the eighteenth century, setting up instead a republican (or representative) form of government, where ultimate power rose up from the people and not–as monarchs argue–from on high. "Divine right of kings" was replaced by the principle of "one person, one vote". A federal system was established with three co-equal branches of government with checks and balances at both the national level and in each individual state.
Today, the vast majority of governments around the world herald themselves as democracies and republics. Why? Because it is a recognized universal absurdity for anyone to set themselves up as the sole sovereign in a country and, moreover, it is the ultimate absurdity for anyone to actually believe in such a farce. There are only three ways to maintain such a fiction: either through bestowing riches upon selected followers–which leads to sycophancy, or through enforced ignorance, or through the imposition of the threat of force. [And, yes, all the media hype these past few weeks over the "royal wedding" between two pampered Brits was indeed an exercise in "enforced ignorance".]
Today in Bahrain, the populace is no longer ignorant. Indeed, much of the population is highly educated, and most Bahrainis have a great deal of respect for their educated peers. Consequently, the Al Khalifa monarchy has to buy off a segment of the population with unearned riches and to utilize force against the vast majority of the population to maintain their rule. Indeed, I am currently receiving reports from those in the know in Bahrain indicating that the imposition of the current "state of national safety" with tanks in the streets will last at least a year.
I have stated previously that Bahraini civil society has been fundamentally altered by the democratic spring of 2011 and that US policymakers need to adjust their assumptions; otherwise, the facts will come back to blow up in their faces. To maintain that a few months of severe repression, gruesome torture, and selective killings will calm things over is highly optimistic and fantastic in a theoretical sense, i.e. it is imaginary. And so I repeat for a third week in a row, as the following nursery rhyme is so germane to the present situation in Bahrain:
Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall,
Humpty Dumpty had a great fall.
All the king's horses and all the king's men
Couldn't put Humpty together again.
American diplomats, security analysts, politicians, et al. who do not realize this truth are misleading themselves and the American public.
And, again, I refer all readers to The Crooked Bough website for timely updates on the political situation in Bahrain, as it is beating most outlets at critical reportage coming out of Bahrain.
regards,
csc
About the author:
Until February 15th of this year, I was an Assistant Professor teaching in the American Studies Center at the University of Bahrain. I submitted my resignation following the Fall semester at the end of January, as my wife, a Moroccan national, was granted an immigrant visa to the US by the State Department with the proviso that we be residing within the USA by April 1, 2011. Little did we know in January, when I submitted my resignation, that we would be in a race for time before we could leave, as the Arab rebellions were sweeping from Tunisia to Egypt to Yemen and into Bahrain and beyond. We left Bahrain on February 25th, the day of the largest demonstrations in Bahraini history and have since been residing in Seattle, Washington.
Background on Bahrain:
On February 14, 2011, the citizenry of Bahrain rose up in opposition to the Al Khalifa monarchy and demanded democratic reforms. Their voices were met with stiff resistance from the autocratic regime which has been in power for over 200 years now. Unbowed, the citizenry took to the Pearl Roundabout in downtown Manama with some advocating for a constitutional monarchy and others a democratic republic. In response, the regime unleashed a reign of terror down on the protesters. Meanwhile, the US was directing its focus on Libya and getting through the United Nations a resolution for a no-fly zone over that country, which passed on Thursday, March 17th. One week prior, on Friday, March 11th, US Defense Secretary Robert Gates flew to Bahrain and met with the King and the Crown Prince, and on Monday, March 14th, approximately 2000 to 3000 Saudi Arabian and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) tanks and troops rolled across the causeway from Saudi Arabia into Bahrain to crush the opposition. The next day, March 15th, King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa issued Royal Decree No. 18 for the year 2011, declaring a three-month "State of National Safety". The Bahrain Defence Forces (BDF) subsequently began a systematic crackdown on anyone who was suspected of opposing the monarchy and calling for democracy. On March 18th, the BDF tore down the Pearl Monument, known to locals as either "Lulu" or "the GCC Monument" and to the international press as "Pearl Square" due to its similarity to Tahrir Square in Cairo, Egypt where protesters had gathered. The regime's crackdown is an attempt to wipe away the memory of the 2011 Bahraini Democratic Spring from the popular mindset, and they are sparing nothing to root out and crush, using force and intimidation including torture and murder, any further resistance. The silence from most of the mainstream media in America is deafening.
The fact that the US Fifth Fleet is based in Bahrain and the fact that the US is completely dependent on and addicted to Saudi-monarchy oil–i.e. oil doled out by a corrupt and sclerotic regime, and that both regimes (i.e. the Al Sauds and the Al Khalifas)–indeed all GCC regimes–in turn, are kept in power by US guns, makes all the difference–for now at least. The US is clearly supporting the Al-Khalifa monarchy, putting its oil interests ahead of its avowed democratic principles. From all accounts, the beating into submission as well as the subsequent bloodbath continues in earnest. For US citizens, it is another lost opportunity… But with your help and voices, we can eventually rectify our country's policy in this regard and realign it with our country's stated principles.
US interests in the long term will ultimately be served by supporting democratic elements and, eventually, democratic regimes in the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region. Does that mean we should overthrow existing governments? No, but it does mean that we should not be arming, financially supporting, and enabling corrupt regimes to slaughter opposition forces advocating for democratic rights in their countries, and then remaining silent while it happens. Sycophancy in the service of autocratic rulers with decidedly undemocratic ethos is degrading and demeaning. Such a stance is an affront to humanity. Putting off the goal of aligning ourselves with democratic elements for short-term advantage will have negative repercussions not only on current US foreign policy but, as well, on US domestic policy, as millions of petro-dollars will find their way back into US politics attempting to undermine our democracy here at home. While countering theocratic influence in the region is understandable and necessary, this will require a strategy with quite a bit more sophistication than is presently being demonstrated. As well, implementing such a strategy will necessitate experienced hands who are neither intimidated by the apparent chaos often associated with democratic movements nor infatuated with monarchical tendencies and supportive of elite rule.
NOTE:
Names and other identifying information have been removed and/or redacted in order to protect the safety of the sender[s], unless the person(s) is (are) a reporter or a public activist(s) and want their names to be known, as publicity sometimes gives them some protection from regime retaliation. If you are not a known public activist and/or reporter, please inform me if you would like your name to appear along with your report; otherwise, I will redact them to maintain your anonymity.
regards,
csc
__________________
Colin S. Cavell, Ph.D.
P.O. Box 9087
Seattle, WA 98109

———- Forwarded message ———-

Date: Sun, May 1, 2011 at 10:40 PM
Subject: May Day message from Bahrain Trade Unions

To: "Colin S. Cavell, Ph.D." ccavell@gmail.com

Statement from the trades unions in Bahrain

As we celebrate this international day of workers, workers in Bahrain are undergoing difficult and testing times. Every year we march through the streets of Manama in solidarity with workers everywhere on the globe. However, this year we are unable to do so, most of the leaders of the unions are either in prison or under investigation.

The government of Bahrain is on a witch hunt and their methods resemble those used by the inquisitions in the medieval times. Political affiliation and ideologies are rigorously questioned and personal opinion are condemned and punished. Court appearances and sentences are rushed. This is all under the pretext of participating in the wider political process and the supporting of the movements calling for democracy and change in Bahrain.

This is not a new phenomenon in Bahrain, but things have taken a very ugly turn in the last two months, especially after the crackdown by the regime and invasion by the GCC armies. The human rights situation in Bahrain has deteriorated and the rule of the law has been suspended, as the country is now ruled by martial law.

Hundreds if not thousands of workers and professionals have been dismissed. Sectarianism is the order of the day and the majority of the people are baring the brunt.

We are a part of the main opposition in Bahrain, ours is the legitimate voice of the people. We declare our unwavering support and solidarity with all those who are affected by the illegal and immoral actions of the authorities in Bahrain. Security and military solutions can only serve to divide the communities and the country and will cause long lasting alienation between the ruling family and the people. We advise that only a political solution can remedy the current mayhem in Bahrain.

Workers are the backbone of the Bahraini economy and their contributions are evident in all industries and trades. They are a dynamic and vibrant force for good and their role in nation building cannot be overestimated.

So today with you and in the great city of Manchester we honor your struggles and our struggle and sacrifices for a free, fair, and democratic Bahrain, and we ask for your full support and backing of these demands.

<object width="640" height="390"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ArmwGVTF6Jk&rel=0&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&version=3"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ArmwGVTF6Jk&rel=0&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="640" height="390"></embed></object>

———- Forwarded message ———-

Date: Sun, May 1, 2011 at 2:40 PM
Subject: Bahrain update Apr 25 – May 1
To: "Colin S. Cavell, Ph.D." ccavell@gmail.com
[redacted]

Many people are speculating these days about the situation in Bahrain, and if things are changing or shifting back to normal, mostly because they feel that the people are silent. Truth is, people are not silent, and they just feel like a broken record. The bloggers, twitter or facebook users are quieter, some for security reasons, but many more because the same things are happening over and over again.

Much fewer people broadcast when their areas are attacked, news of arrests circulate slower, names of missing are less widespread amongst people, accounts of daily violations and assaults on people in their homes and at their work places are less reported, and the volume of the news flow that these and other news pieces created in previous weeks is lessening.

This is happening not because any of these horrors have stopped or lessened, but because they are repeated so often on a daily basis that people don’t feel the urge to report them anymore, because it’s the same story every day.

The upside is that all of this is not stopping people internally from persisting in their small-scale protests, or rooftop shouts or vigils, whatever gets them to go on and keep up their fight. The weekly protests are still continuing every Friday despite the police forces instant attacks on them and, sometimes, they even attack or surround areas before it’s time for these protests, preventing them from formulating. It’s not putting people down though, because at the end of the day, the people feel like they sent the intended message nonetheless.

During this weekend, two families I deeply care about were attacked in their homes in two of the many pre-dawn raids that took place. The infamous pre-dawn raids are one of the most famous techniques of our regime, attacking people at hours where they are least prepared to fight back and when neighbors are least likely to witness what took place.

One of those homes was the last destination on a series of attacks on 20 homes in one night of the same family. Looking for one of the family members, regime forces continued terrorizing people until the person being sought was found in the house of one his nieces. They had raided the homes of her uncles, aunts, and parents. They used electric shocks on her family members inside their homes, in front of their parents. They beat up the men and forbid the women to cover themselves. They forced the parents out of their bedroom, and stole the mother’s gold. Her own house was robbed as well: her gold, expensive camera, and over BD700 were taken by the corrupt forces. They do this because they know people will be too scared to report it, and if they do report it, they won’t be taken seriously; they will get a statement of the robbery in worst cases and wait indefinitely for their things to return. She didn’t care for this though; she was mortified with the abuse she and her family faced at her home. Her husband was away; her three kids were there. They directed bright lights on the kids in their room and shouted and screamed at them; they shouted at her 2-year-old daughter and held her less-than-one-year-old son in their hands, telling her they would take him away and she would not be able to see him till she turns in her uncle. Eventually, they found her uncle, and arrested them both. She was released 5 hours later; her uncle’s fate is unknown. When I met her yesterday, she was still in angry disbelief. She says her two-year-old daughter’s whole body was shaking nonstop, even 5 hours later when she returned to her. This person is one of the most cheerful people I know in my life; I have never seen her cry before or even talk in a negative manner. All she did was receive her uncle in her home, and all his crime consisted of was that he belonged to a political party!

The other home I was referring to wasn’t very different. I have known this family my whole life; their father passed away 7 years ago or so. The eldest two brothers take care of the family. They were looking for one of those brothers. Their doors were broken with iron bars, glass shattered, front and inside doors vandalized and pierced with the iron bars. The same iron bars were used to tear and break any frame or picture of a political leader that hung on the walls of the house, like pictures of the late Shaikh Abdul Ameer AlJamri, Godfather of the 90s uprising. Those iron bars were also used to terrify the children, and threaten the women when they screamed, and they forbade them from moving to cover themselves. When the brother was found, he requested to drink water before being escorted, but they refused. The person accompanying the forces was definitely a very good intelligence agent, definitely close to the family; he knew the young man had a heart problem, and so he instructed the forces to take his pills because he takes them daily. After taking him and his laptop, they went to the neighbor's house, put a gun to the neighbor’s head as she watched them break her garage door and take the young man’s car; their agent knew he parked it there. I spoke to a family member; I learned he has a heart operation scheduled this month! They are very worried.

These two events took place within 24 hours of each other. I am one person in Bahrain having this as my daily life. There are many many more that I know and hear of every day, people from my area, other areas, all around Bahrain.

Yesterday, Saturday morning, a 6-year-old boy (Mohamed Abdul Hussain Farhan) passed away affected by suffocation which he experienced on Friday after the riot police excessively attacked his area in Sitra with tear gas bombs. He spent the night in ICU and passed away Saturday morning.

And this evening, the Ministry of Interior announces another dead body found in Hoora (Manama) http://www.policemc.gov.bh/en/news_details.aspx?type=1&articleId=6987 ; people are anxious now. The last time this happened was April 6th, when a missing 57-year-old man was announced to be found dead in a very similar manner by MoI. Later his body was found to be bruised and tortured [graphic] http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=167186086669977&set=a.166318410090078.46482.159852480736671&type=1

Below are my compiled updates for this week:

This week they include:

  • Protesters News
  • Wikileaks
  • Media reports
  • Video reports
  • Picture reports

· Protesters News:

o Thursday 28th Apr 2011: Military Justice rules lifetime in prison to three and death sentence to four protesters who they accuse of running over two policemen. The four sentenced to death penalty are Ali AlSingaise, Abdulaziz Hussain, Qassim Mattar and Saeed Abduljalil http://www.2bb.me/0427-1303948936.jpg (their pictures are #1, #3, #5 and #6)

o Inconsistencies in Televised Confession of Bahraini Protesters Who Were Sentenced to Death/ and illegality of Death Penalty rule according to Bahrain law! http://nymag.com/daily/intel/2011/04/bahrains_sentences_four_protes.html

o Google map showing some of the registered demolished/ vandalized/ burnt mosques belonging to Shia around Bahrain http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=201183833019020787911.0004a17a0fd2cb6e24158

o Friday 29th April 2011, 6-year-old Mohamed Farhan fell due to tear gas suffocation. He passed away early morning on Saturday. [Archive photos of the boy http://www.no-mercy.me/0429-816713040965422448.jpg , http://www.no-mercy.me/0429-781213040965428513.jpg.]

o Pearl revolution website established, I don’t personally know the front behind this website, but it reflects a lot of the rhetoric and thought of youth on social websites and blogs http://www.thepearlroundabout.org/

o Monday 25th April: Arrest of journalist Haidar Mohamed from AlWasat newspaper http://bit.ly/gSZ3wZ

o Tuesday 26th April: Doctors Fareeda Aldallal, Sadeq AlAali, Enas Al-ekri arrested amongst other medical staff. On Friday 29th April, consultant Dr Hassan Al-Tooblani head of ICU department was arrested in the morning from his home. Other doctors and medical staff have been arrested over two weeks ago from Ibn Sina Health Center in the capitol and their families haven’t heard any news of them until today.

o List of sportspeople and sports clubs targeted by government for their involvement in protests: http://bahrainrights.hopto.org/BCHR/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/sports.pdf

o List of reported martyrs: http://almosawi.blogetery.com/?p=196#comment-7 – list hasn’t been yet updated with the latest 6-year-old from Sitra, passed away after suffocating with tear gas shot in his home area. He was in ICU all night on 29th April and passed away early in the day on 30th April, 2011.

o Interview with Aseel Ebrahim Sharif, on her missing father: http://www.peacexpeace.org/2011/04/bahrain-made-personal-one-woman-story-of-her-missing-father/

o Hunger and Hope: Interview with hunger striker Mohammed AlDa’aysi http://theleadpress.com/column_daaysi.html

o Protestor blog: Lulu Phobia: http://almosawi.blogetery.com/?p=202

o Wefaq municipal members fired for participating at municipals march and signing municipals petition to UN

o Sign petition to United Nations for the people of Bahrain http://www.petitiononline.com/ssi2011/petition.html

o Aljazeera Arabic has dedicated page to Bahrain. This is a concession to people who have been complaining of AlJazeera’s silence and negativity towards Bahrain’s revolution because of their Qatari funding http://goo.gl/cz8Bs or http://fb.me/GDLJaIFv

· Wikileaks:

o Cable on Bahrain’s youth “worried about jobs, skeptical of political authority and open to America” Classified By: Ambassador Adam Ereli http://www.wikileaks.ch/cable/2009/12/09MANAMA737.html

· Media reports:

o Bahrain seeks death sentence for protesters on trial http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/04/25/us-bahrain-trial-idUSTRE73O39A20110425?WT.tsrc=Social%20Media&WT.z_smid=twtr-reuters_%20com&WT.z_smid_dest=Twitter

o Arab Spring: the Hidden Tragedy of Bahrain http://www.huffingtonpost.com/amir-madani/bahrain-arab-spring_b_854191.html

o 30 medical staff to be investigated: http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-04-26/bahrain-to-investigate-30-medical-staff-for-violations-bna-says.html

o Global Union Movement Calls for End to Repression in Bahrain http://bit.ly/eTBDps

o Turkish weekly: Bahraini Regime Strangling Dissent http://bit.ly/kG4hac

o Another article sympathizing with the Crown Prince: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/bahrain/8472420/Crown-Prince-of-Bahrain-politically-sidelined-by-senior-royal-advisers.html

o Royal Wedding’s Dirty Secret http://www.globalresearch.ca/index.php?context=va&aid=24493

o Democracy advocates face challenges as Arab spring turns violent http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704471904576230573350388868.html?mod=wsj_share_twitter

o Gulf Allies: A record of repression and torture: http://www.wsws.org/articles/2011/apr2011/righ-a25.shtml

o CNN: Bahrain government accuses Hezbollah of aiding opposition groups http://www.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/meast/04/25/bahrain.hezbollah/index.html

o CNN: Bahrain in the shadow of Iran, Saudi Arabia and United States http://www.cnn.com/2011/OPINION/04/25/bahrain.saudi.iran.arshin/index.html

o Worshipers condemn death penalty in Bahrain: http://www.worldbulletin.net/?aType=haber&ArticleID=73125

o GDN News:

§ Laughable GDN piece on the doctors who “answered the call of duty” by not treating protesters, as opposed to those who treated protesters against government instructions! http://www.gulf-daily-news.com/NewsDetails.aspx?storyid=304729&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

§ And they admit sacking sportspeople for being involved in protests: http://www.gulf-daily-news.com/NewsDetails.aspx?storyid=304739&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

§ That’s the way up the ladder now in Bahrain: http://www.gulf-daily-news.com/NewsDetails.aspx?storyid=304670&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

o [Arabic] 320 Kuwaiti students (from Shia sect) denied entry to Bahrain and their embassy not answering their call, while students travelling with them that are Sunni entered normally. http://ow.ly/4JL0X

o [Arabic] BAPCO put their foot down and refuse the interference of the investigation committee http://www.alwasatnews.com/3153/news/read/552880/1.html you may use google translate to get an overview of the piece.

o [Arabic] Municipality Council of Central Governorate fires four Wefaq representatives http://www.alwasatnews.com/3153/news/read/552875/1.html

o [Arabic] Qatar and Bahrain royal family members visit Egypt http://www.youm7.com/News.asp?NewsID=399741&SecID=97&IssueID=0 this is not the first visit. These visits I bet have helped as well with turning some of the Egyptian popular opinion (at least amongst muslim brotherhood Qaradhawi followers) against Bahrain’s revolution.

· Video reports:

o CNN live with Joe Stork of Human Rights Watch http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0veQfrjrwa4&feature=share to watch the complete report with better quality http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=458St6IdAm4

o Press TV report on Shia demolished mosques: http://vimeo.com/22836415

o Revolution in Bahrain cracking media blackout http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=noaw_T3JjpU&feature=share

o CNN: Clampdown in Bahrain http://www.cnn.com/video/data/2.0/video/world/2011/04/26/jamjoom.gcc.arab.uprising.cnn.html

o One of the many lies of Bahrain TV. They used excerpts from this video to say protesters faked their wounds http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__EAWsKr6G4&feature=youtu.be

o Video report: summary of mosques destroyed & burning Quran in Bahrain http://youtu.be/DbR8AtS1huQ

§ Another video of some of the Shia mosques demolished by the government in their sectarian retribution http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8g68XAuw-_g&feature=youtu.be

o Nausea alert: Bahrain TV launches a program called “We are all Khalifa”, right when you think they can’t top themselves http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hAn8oohO3ts&feature=youtu.be

o Against BTV http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VanyPe2rzY8

o Video of citizens being pulled out of their cars at checkpoints. Video uploader claims the driver was beaten then arrested, apologizes for the shaky footage because too many forces were around and he was afraid to get caught http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yMi_J5EiaRY

· Picture reports:

o The “loyal citizens” of Bahrain signing on the book of allegiance stand at Bahrain City Center shopping mall https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/222750_222791824402903_216607041688048_1079991_3855164_n.jpg — Do I dare point out the obvious?

o Pictures of the destruction of Shia religious buildings in Bani Jamrah, and graffiti reading “Long Live Khalifa”, “Long Live Bu Met’eb” (Bu Met’eb is King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia) and other writings cursing opposition figures.

o The mess left behind at the home of Hussain Marzooq after his arrest (the second story in my introduction)

§ http://bb.ta7a.com/upfiles/ta7a-CBE16401.jpg

§ http://bb.ta7a.com/upfiles/ta7a-xYK16734.jpg

§ http://bb.ta7a.com/upfiles/ta7a-CLz17345.jpg

§ http://bb.ta7a.com/upfiles/ta7a-CGp17487.jpg

§ http://bb.ta7a.com/upfiles/ta7a-3k817787.jpg

§ http://bb.ta7a.com/upfiles/ta7a-ySC18042.jpg

§ http://bb.ta7a.com/upfiles/ta7a-xCQ18296.jpg

§ http://bb.ta7a.com/upfiles/ta7a-FTZ18509.jpg

§ http://bb.ta7a.com/upfiles/ta7a-hDh19731.jpg

§ http://bb.ta7a.com/upfiles/ta7a-bCk20021.jpg

§ http://bb.ta7a.com/upfiles/ta7a-uQ720353.jpg

§ http://bb.ta7a.com/upfiles/ta7a-eVF20629.jpg

———- Forwarded message ———-

Date: Sun, May 1, 2011 at 9:21 PM
Subject: [From: c s] The west's silence over Bahrain smacks of double standards
The west's silence over Bahrain smacks of double standards

The absence of pressure on Saudi Arabia and Bahrain will only deepen the gulf of distrust between Iran and the west

Hooshang Amirahmadi and Kaveh Afrasiabi
Thursday April 28 2011
The European Union and the Obama administration have made a splendid art of double standards by imposing sanctions on Tehran's rulers for their human rights violations and taking military action against the Libyan dictator while failing to address the appalling repression [http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2011/apr/22/bahrain-counter-revolution-televised-athletes" title="Guardian: In Bahrain, first, they came for the athletes] of the pro-democracy movement in Bahrain.
For the US and the EU, which claim to uphold principles over interests, this contradictory policy and their silence over the Saudi intervention [http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2011/mar/17/bahrain-saudi-intervention-sectarian-conflict-protests" title="Cif: Bahrainis cannot be subdued for ever] in Bahrain is particularly harmful.
Indeed, it is hypocrisy for the history books ? to be interpreted by future historians as a reflection of the dominance of western realpolitik over values. How else can one interpret the fact that so far EU-US officials have paid minimal attention to the brutal crackdown in Bahrain, which according to various human rights organisations has resulted in dozens of deaths and incarceration of several hundred protesters?
Instead of condemning the Bahraini government's oppression of its citizens and backing the protesters' legitimate demand for a constitutional monarchy, the EU and the US have confined themselves to vacuous statements without taking any action proportionate to the gravity of the political crisis in Bahrain. The only exception is the rare show of bravado by Zsolt Nemeth, the Hungarian deputy foreign minister (also an EU official) who has advocated [http://www.examiner.com/christianity-politics-in-national/eu-contemplates-mid-east-intervention-un-debates-earth-s-inalienable-rights" title="examiner.com: EU contemplates Mid East intervention, UN debates earths 'inalienable rights'] a Libya-style Nato intervention in Bahrain.
No other EU official has seconded Nemeth, who came under attack for making "empty threats" in light of the fact that Bahrain is home to the American Fifth Fleet and therefore a crucial piece of "American turf". Nemeth's heroic statement coincided with the EU's latest move to freeze the assets and place travel bans on 32 Iranian officials for human rights violations. Earlier, the US and Sweden had jointly sponsored a UN resolution appointing a human rights observer for Iran.
To their credit, the EU foreign policy chief, Catherine Ashton, and her foreign policy team have wisely insulated themselves from the Saudi-Bahraini PR campaign to rationalise Bahrain's repressive behaviour by scapegoating Iran. In comparison, the Obama administration has flip-flopped as reflected in the changing position of defence secretary Robert Gates who, in his latest trip to the region, reversed himself on his admission in March that there was no evidence of Iranian meddling in Bahrain.
Aside from principles, the EU and the US have geostrategic interests that demand a more prudent and long-term policy toward the Bahraini crisis, one diametrically different from the current short-sighted approach. The EU and the US must understand that their obliviousness to the pile-up of popular resentment in Bahrain and elsewhere in the changing Middle East is bound to backfire against their long-term and strategic interests in the region.
A more politically and strategically correct approach counsels a course of action along the following lines: strong and sustained condemnation of the Bahraini government for its human rights abuses; threat of diplomatic reprisals; warning to freeze Bahraini assets and impose travel bans on various Bahraini officials implicated in rights violations; calling on Saudi Arabia to respect the democratic aspirations of Bahraini people and to withdraw its military forces from Bahrain; offering to mediate in the Bahrain political crisis; and to facilitate the process toward free elections.
Only through concrete and proactive measures such as these can the EU and the US recuperate from their damaged standing in the Middle East due to the double standards infecting their policies. Given that the Shia leaders in Iran care so much about their disfranchised Shia brethren in Bahrain, a more principled EU-US approach is bound to improve the rocky Iran-EU relations and mitigate tension with the US, positively impacting the deadlocked negotiations on their nuclear standoff.
On the other hand, the absence of real pressure applied on Saudi Arabia and Bahrain by the EU and the US, compared with their heroics on Iran, will only deepen the present gulf of distrust between Iran and the west, thus making it less likely that Tehran will take EU's recent offer of improving relations seriously.
Under a EU-US double-standards scenario, Tehran will also remain intransigent regarding its tension with the US, nuclear programmes and human rights violations.
If you have any questions about this email, please contact the guardian.co.uk user help desk: userhelp@guardian.co.uk.
guardian.co.uk Copyright (c) Guardian News and Media Limited. 2011
Registered in England and Wales No. 908396
Registered office: PO Box 68164, Kings Place, 90 York Way, London N1P 2AP
Please consider the environment before printing this email.
——————————————————————
Visit guardian.co.uk – newspaper website of the year
———- Forwarded message ———-

Date: Sun, May 1, 2011 at 8:18 PM
Subject: Inconsistencies in Televised Confession of Bahraini Protesters Who Were Sentenced to Death

New York Magazine

* Please note, the sender's email address has not been verified.
yo

Click the following to access the sent link:
Inconsistencies in Televised Confession of Bahraini Protesters Who Were Sentenced to Death*
SAVE THIS link FORWARD THIS link
Get your EMAIL THIS Browser Button and use it to email content from any Web site. Click here for more information.
Quantcast
*This article can also be accessed if you copy and paste the entire address below into your web browser.

———- Forwarded message ———-

From: NYTimes.com <newstracker@nytimes.com>
Date: Thu, Apr 28, 2011 at 11:40 PM
Subject: My Alerts: Bahrain Alerts (1 article)
The New York Times

April 29, 2011

My Alerts

ADVERTISEMENT

Alert Name: Bahrain Alerts

April 29, 2011 Compiled: 1:56 AM

WORLD / MIDDLE EAST

By NADA BAKRI (NYT)

The four Shiite Muslim protesters were accused of killing two policemen last month during protests against the Sunni Muslim-led government.

About This E-mail

You received this e-mail because you signed up for NYTimes.com's My Alerts tool. As a member of the TRUSTe privacy program, we are committed to protecting your privacy.

———- Forwarded message ———-

Date: Thu, Apr 28, 2011 at 7:07 PM
To: "Colin S. Cavell, Ph.D." ccavell@gmail.com
[redacted]

Wow. That's quite the production.
Here's another video received today, which has quite a different tenor:
———- Forwarded message ———-

Date: Thu, Apr 28, 2011 at 9:05 AM
Subject: Latest from Bahrain
[redacted]
There were rumors that the university was about to reopen. Judging by the following link, that looks unlikely.
[redacted]

Studying Will Be Resumed when Probe Is over, Says University of Bahrain

Manama, April 28. (BNA) – The University of Bahrain today said that the investigations on the March 13th incidents should continue for the sake of determining the real causes of those regretful events, adding that the probe committees have uncovered dangerous terrorist and subversive plots involving academicians, employees and students.

The university noted that studies will not be resumed unless the three probe committees have finished their work, adding that it is currently rehabilitating the university buildings and consolidating the security procedures ahead of the students’ return.

W H Q.
BNA 1351 GMT 2011/04/28

Date : 2011/04/28

———- Forwarded message ———-

From: Maryam Al-Khawaja <maryam.alkhawaja@gmail.com>
Date: Thu, Apr 28, 2011 at 7:50 AM
Subject: URGENT: 4 protesters sentenced to death, 3 to life imprisonment
To: Maryam Al-Khawaja <maryam.alkhawaja@gmail.com>
Dear Friends,
Death Sentence:
Ali Hassan AlSingace: 19 years old
Qasim Hasan Matar: 20 years old
Saeed Abduljalil Saeed: 19 years old
AbdulAziz AbdulRidha: 24 years old
Life Sentences:
Isa Abdulla Kadhem: 19 years old
Sayed Sadiq Ali: 19 years old
Hussain Jaffar: 19 years old
(For pictures of the sentenced) AlJazeera coverage: http://english.aljazeera.net/news/middleeast/2011/04/201142881322769709.html
As taken from the Bahrain News Agency: http://www.bna.bh/portal/en/news/454568
On the website (video 2) the "confessions" have been broad casted, which seem to be the only "evidence" provided by the prosecution.

Manama, April 28 (BNA) — The National Safety Lower Court on Thursday condemned Ali Abdullah Hassan Al Singees, Qasim Hasan Matar Ahmad, Saeed Abduljalil Saeed and Abdulaziz Abdulridha Ibrahim Husain to death for their role in the killing of Policemen Kashef Ahmed Madhoor and Mohammed Farooq Abdulsamad.

The court also condemned Isa Abdullah Kadhem Ali, Sayyed Sadiq Ali Mahdi and Husain Jaafar Abdulkareem to life in prison for their role in the twin murders.The case of the murders by the seven men was referred to the court following an intensive investigation by the competent authorities.Lawyers have the right to appeal the verdict before the National Safety Court of Appeals.Present at the session during which the verdict was pronounced were journalists from the local media, representative from human rights organisations, relatives of the defendants, lawyers and the defendants.Kashef Ahmed Mandhoor and Mohammed Farooq Abdulsamad were murdered last month when they were deliberately hit by vans and run over in one of the most gruesome murders in Bahrain. The killing was captured on camera and displayed on TV networks and on social networks Facebook and You Tube.The defendants had all their legal rights in line with human rights standards and had lawyers representing them during the trial. They were also allowed to contact their families. The trial sessions were attended by representative from human rights organisations and relatives of the defendants.

—

Maryam Al-Khawaja

Contact:

+44-7587303080 / +1(401)572-6597

Head of Foreign Relations Office

Bahrain Center for Human Rights

———- Forwarded message ———-

Date: Thu, Apr 28, 2011 at 7:36 AM
Subject: Latest Bahrain Posts
Death Sentences, Manama McCarthyism, US Crimes Against Humanity, Royal
http://iicblog.wordpress.com/2010/04/29/tom-lantos-human-rights-commission-hearing-on-the-human-rights-situation-in-bahrain/

Islamic Information Center

Politics, Media, and Interfaith Since 2002

It is important to mention that this is the first time the United States Congress hold an official on the record hearing on Bahrain. On the record means that it will be published in the Congressional record and everyone will have access it to it. These are the people who attended the hearing as witnesses:

  1. Joe Stork, Human Rights Watch
  2. Stephen McInerney, Project on Middle East Democracy
  3. Mohammed Alansari, Bahrain Society for Public Freedom (from the government)
  4. Kenneth Katzman, Specialist in Middle eastern Affairs – Library of Congress
  5. Katie Zoglin, Freedom House

The Hearing was chaired by Congressman James McGovern, who is the co-chair of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission (TLHRC) and Congresswoman Donna Edwards who is a member of the TLHRC. It is vital to mention that Congressman McGovern he is being the co-chair of the Commission and for him to attend; does elevate the issue and topic to high circles among the leadership in the Congress. In other words, for him to come is a sign that there is a serious concern about Human Rights Violations in Bahrain. The hearing started at 12 noon and ended at 1:45pm. There was a very high attendant to an extent some time during the Hearing some people stood because they were not enough chairs. Also, many members of Congress staffers were in the attendee and they were constantly taking notes.

The hearing started with a short remark by Congressman James McGovern in which he expressed his concern over the recent political developments in Bahrain especially in the area of torture and undo force against Bahraini political activists by the Government of Bahrain. He also indicated that the United States should have a frank and open conversation with its allies against using torture as a policy in the country. Congressman McGovern describes Bahrain as a country that takes one step forward in the right direction then two or some time even three steps backwards toward the wrong direction and authoritarianism. He refers to a report by the State Department where abuses by Bahraini security forces against the demonstrators were clear sign of torture. Congressman McGovern expressed his concern over human trafficking in Bahrain and the rights of the migrant workers in the country. He ended his remarks that the goal of this hearing is to educate the member of Congress on what is going on in Bahrain and how the United States Congress could address the issue to improve the situation and end the use of torture in Bahrain.

Then, Congresswoman Donna Edwards gave her remarks in which she indicated her serious concern over lack of respect for Human Rights and use of torture in Bahrain. She also, indicated that she traveled to Bahrain twice and as part of her duties as a Congresswoman and visited members of the army who are stationed in Bahrain. Congresswoman Edwards indicated that this topic is very important to her because many of her constituents have contacted her and seek her help to protect Human Rights in Bahrain. At the end of introductory remarks she indicated that Human Rights watch report titled “Torture Redux, the revival of physical coercion during interrogation in Bahrain” is very much concern to her and she is looking forward to this hearing to shed light on the Human Rights situation in Bahrain. Then, she introduced the entire guest and asks Jo Stork from Human Rights Watch to begin his remarks.

Jo Stork, Human Rights Watch

Mr. Stork began his remarks by stating that he has been working on issues related to Bahrain for long time and he visited the country numerous times in relation to his work at Human Rights Watch. After King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa took over the rule in Bahrain he initiated political reforms which from the surface looked desirable and something to be admired. However, as years progressed the reality became to look much different than what the political program initially claimed it is going to do in the country. Thus, the government of Bahrain had gotten a free ride for some time because of the claim that it adopted genuine political reforms. However, the reality is completely different. The government of Bahrain should revive the momentum on genuine political reforms and the US should pressure for some practical measures that bring about change in the situation in the country. I was in Bahrain in June 2009 to interview some prisoners who were recently released from the prison under different charges ranges from terrorism to over throwing the government. We received their testimony and different medical records which indicated physical injuries and we (Human Rights watch) concluded that torture has been used heavily in Bahrain by the government since 2007 in its interrogation methods with political detainees. In addition, the Bahraini government failed to investigate the numerous torture incidents which in many cases leads to sexual abuse and violence and threat of raping a family member like the wife, mother, or sister. It was obvious that the torture that was used was meant to inflict pain and suffering on the political detainee. Mr. Stork added that torture is a very serious crime and be prosecuted universally and the government of Bahrain should seriously look into investigating these many torture incidents. Therefore, torture is once again part of the official policy in Bahrain. The US government should engage privately and publically with the government of Bahrain and make it clear that torture will not be tolerated even if it comes from an ally. Also, Congress should do more in this regard. Furthermore, the king of Bahrain should be approached personally and talked to and seek his intervention to stop torture in the country at last Bahrain still ruled by an authoritarian government.

Stephen McInerney, Project on Middle East Democracy

Mr. Mclnerney concentrated on political right and the upcoming elections in Bahrain. He indicated that there is no true since of citizenship in the country where majority of the country believe that even if they participated in the political process they don’t feel that change will take place because of gerrymandering by the government to their voices. This is a dangerous trend and need to be addressed. The government in Bahrain was able to use democracy in its advantage to control the society and to consolidate the government power. In other words, in the name of democracy you will not have political rights even if you vote in the elections because we have already controlled one of the two legislative bodies. Also, the Bahraini government moved toward creating a government non-government organization (GNGO) to control the political activities in the country. Also, the government enacted some laws which are very back warded and bad for any progress like the political association law. Political parties are prohibited by law but political association is allowed. NDI was recently denied entry to the country because they were going to meet some political activists whom the government did not like; such move gives a clear indication which direction the country is moving toward and that is an alarming trend. The government has not yet set a date for the parliamentary election and that in itself is a concern because having a date is essential for outside group to come to Bahrain and to monitor the election. There is no separation of power; the king has the first and final authority in the country even the parliament cannot enact laws or debate proposed laws unless they are approved by the government. So there is no real power in the legislative body to legislate. I think elections in Bahrain are not going to bring real reforms or real political rights in the country and that lead me to question the Bahraini government commitment to political reforms and political rights.

Katie Zoglin, Freedom House

We at the Freedom House downgraded Bahrain from partially free to not free. Ms. Zoglin concentrated her remarks on women rights, human trafficking, and domestic violence. She encouraged the Bahraini government to look seriously into improving women situation in the country especially when it comes to women of domestic violence. Another concern she has was the lack of serious commitment on behalf of the government of Bahrain when it comes to human trafficking and how that still exist a problem in the country.

Kenneth Katzman, Specialist in Middle Eastern Affairs – Library of Congress

Mr. Katzman submitted the library of Congress report to the committee to be included in the record. Then he began his testimony by pointing to the fact that there is serious manipulation of citizenship that is taking place in Bahrain and the recent arrest and torture claims does not help but raise the concern higher over what is taking place in the country. In some cases that led to serious injury or death. Shia consist the majority in the country and they are deprived of their rights. In addition, the government always uses the threat of Iran to suppress the Shia even further. Although in recent years the Bahraini government signed several energy agreement with Iran. Bahrain is the only non-NATO country that is declared as a major ally to the United States. Beside our fifth navy fleet which is stationed in Bahrain; the United States enjoys a great access to Shaikh Isa air base facility which was great help in the two recent wars; Afghanistan and operation Iraqi Freedom. Also, as a major non-NATO ally Bahrain receive military and security assistant from the United States. Criticizing the Bahraini government on their Human Rights records should be open and frank. Bahrain always seeks the United States help in upgrading its military equipment also with its old but complicated problems with its neighboring Qatar.

Mohammed Alansari, Bahrain Society for Public Freedom

It was clear from the beginning that Mr. Alansari was sent by the government to defend it against the massive records of Human Rights violations and torture. He started by stating that Bahrain is in a danger region and that requires the government to be careful and very cautious with its moves especially when it comes to political reforms. Then he talked little bit about the geography in Bahrain and the history of Bahrain. Then, he talked about king Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa and his political program and how reformist of a leader he is and then he compared the current Bahraini constitution to the making of the American Constitution. Also, he claimed that the people of Bahrain with their leader, king Hamad, created the constitution of their country. He claims that Bahrain enjoys freedom of religion, freedom of speech, freedom of association, freedom of press, and free and fair elections. Also, Bahrain lacks any discrimination base on religion, sect, or ethnicity and the problem is that people in Bahrain are victim of their own perception. Also, the real danger is coming from Iran through its Welayat Al-Faqeeh theory which is followed by many Shia in Bahrain blindly and that is a serious concern to the government in Bahrain and it is also a direct threat to the harmony of society in the country. In addition, many Shia clerics who believe in this strict religious theory receive a lot of funding from sources outside Bahrain mainly Iran. He continues that Bahrain enjoy the most level of equality among its citizens. While Mr. Alansari was given his testimony Congressman McGovern and Congresswoman were really shocked by his remarks and abruptly Congresswoman Donna Edwards stopped Mr. Alansari and asked him to conclude his remarks. Which is a clear indication that they knew Mr. Alansari had an agenda to represent the government of Bahrain not to say the truth.

After Congresswoman Edwards interrupted Mr. Alansari from continuing his propagandas remarks she turns the microphone to Congressman McGovern to ask questions to the witnesses.

Congressman James McGovern asks what is the best way for the United States government to help in this situation? He added, I read the Human Rights watch reports and I see undeniable and clear facts that torture exist in the country and there is a serious political problem so my question is what is the best way to go about this?

Jo Stork responds, we need to have a consistent message to the government of Bahrain that if you need a better relationship with us and if you need to enrich your relation with the United States then you need to address Human Rights Violations issues. In my meeting with the US Ambassador in Manama I felt that the majority of the concern is on human trafficking with some emphasis on Human Rights. If we devote the same energy toward Human Rights and torture then I think we can make a difference. Also, military funding and other appropriation have to be attached to Human Rights as a mandate by Congress.

Congressman James McGovern, this Commission has the power to contact the administration so I guess we need to write directly to the Government of Bahrain and other parties like the State Department and the administration. The message of this hearing should be that “the concern is growing about Human Rights violations and torture in Bahrain”

Then Congresswoman Donna Edwards came to question the witnesses and she began by saying that we are here today to talk about Human Rights violations and torture but that does not stop us from addressing the religious freedom issue also. I think through our funding and programs we can have a positive change in Bahrain; if we can through the right channel have a clear message that torture is unacceptable. Also can someone tell me when the elections are held?

Stephen McInerney, the government did not declare a date yet and that raises an issue whether outside group will be allowed to monitor the elections.

Mohammed Alansari, jumps and says that the elections are free and fair in Bahrain and the government will allow all parties to monitor the elections.

Congresswoman Donna Edwards, then why there is no date yet?

Mohammed Alansari, I think it is sometimes in November or October.

Congresswoman Donna Edwards, have the government declared it or it a speculation on your behalf?

Mohammed Alansari, I am not sure.

Congresswoman Donna Edwards, what is the story of NDI, why they were denied entry to Bahrain?

Stephen McInerney, that is another concern we have and that is if you are serious about reform why you are not allowing outside group to train the local activists and civil society groups. In addition, NDI was not allowed to enter the country because they were going to meet some group that the government did not approve of.

Mohammed Alansari, It was unacceptable to the government that this meeting takes place.

Congresswoman Donna Edwards, Mr. Alansari is your group a civil society group? This question was a clear indication that the Congresswoman did not think that Mr. Alansari group is a legitimate NGO group in the country.

Jo Stork, let us have something clear here and that is Bahrain still have a central authoritarian system of government.

Congresswoman Donna Edwards, I am very concerned and disturbed by the recent arrest of numerous Shia and then throwing them in jail after they have been released initially.

Jo Stork, also the group that they were pardon by the king the record still there which means they could be arrested any day because the pardon is not official.

Congresswoman Donna Edwards, I am to close by saying that we heard a lot of voices today about Human Rights Violations in Bahrain and torture and how we could use our relationship with Bahrain to enhance the Human rights and political situation there. One thing has to be clear that our great relationship with the government of Bahrain should not stop us from raising Human Rights concern and Human Rights Watch report especially brought much needed attention to Bahrain. So I agree with Congressman McGovern when he said the concern is growing and rising about Human Rights Violations in Bahrain in the Congress.

———- Forwarded message ———-

From: Randy Martin <rmartin@mysticmule.net>
Date: Wed, Apr 27, 2011 at 11:51 AM
Subject: 312 detainees released
To: "Cavell, Colin" ccavell@gmail.com
———- Forwarded message ———-

From: Maryam Al-Khawaja <maryam.alkhawaja@gmail.com>
Date: Wed, Apr 27, 2011 at 2:06 PM
Subject: Military General Prosecutor calls for death sentence for 7 on trial tomorrow (Thursday 28th)
To: Maryam Al-Khawaja <maryam.alkhawaja@gmail.com>
Dear Friends,
In alarming news, the military general prosecutor has called for the death sentence for 7 men charged with killing police officers. Kindly find details below in a letter sent by former MP to UN Special Rapporteur on arbitrary executions
More arrests are taking place on an almost daily basis. Authorities have announced today that they will be releasing 312 detainees, updated list of detainees will be sent out as soon as it is ready.
Best,
—
Maryam Al-Khawaja

Head of Foreign Relations Office
Bahrain Center for Human Rights

Dear Mr. Christof HEYNS

Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions

The authorities in Bahrain announced in a news report broadcasted on 4/17/2011 by the official news agency ((http://www.bna.bh/portal/en/news/453174)) that it began the trial of 7 of Bahrainis ((1- Ali Abdullah Hassan 2- Qasim Hassan Mattar, 3- Saeed Abdul Jalil Saeed 4- Issa Abdullah Kazem 5- Abdul Aziz Abdullah Ibrahim 6- Sadiq Ali Mahdi 7- Hussein Jaafar Abdul Karim)), on charges of premeditated murder of two security ((1- Kashif Ahmad perspective 2- Mohamed Farouk Samad)), during the crackdown of protest in Pearl Roundabout on 03/17/2011, because of the charges against them, we believe that they may be subject to execution, which may be implemented in a very short time after the verdict, among the elements of the campaign of intimidation exercised by the authorities against the popular protests that have escalated since 14/02/2011 and that which has been systematically violated and broad human rights including the right to life as you shared with a group of rapporteurs in the statement you issued last March, which obviates the explanation of the case is located, as punishment for the offense against the defendants mentioned under the Bahraini Penal Code (No. 15/1976) can be execution if the killing occurred under normal conditions and between private individuals (Article 333). Those 7 of Bahrainis are currently being tried under the conditions of special security and on members of the official and under the Terrorism Act ( No. 58/2006), which clearly states that the punishment for this crime be execution (Article 3), and that the news on the shortcut broadcast by the authorities refer to fast-track procedures do not comply with the procedures used in the trials, as usual, does not give enough time for lawyers to study the case papers and communicate with the accused and preparation of memoranda of their defense, and are carried away from the public, do not stand on its own merits, except what is published by the authorities, and such trials are going with serious concerns of lawyers in general, especially after the arrest of a lawyer / Mohammed AlTajir known as a defender for a number of political issues became as criminally responsible in the conduct of lawyers to understand that the intimidation of them in the event continue to defend the accused in court of the issues facing the national safety, in particular that the trial take place away from the control local or international human rights organizations reliable ((http://www.bna.bh/portal/en / news/453503)).

That the risk exposure of these citizens of execution linked to the death penalty, which is expected in the context of summary procedures and the trial is not consistent with the standards of fair trial prescribed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, if the court just and in accordance with the provisions of Article (14) of the Covenant which ratified the Kingdom of Bahrain to join him in 2006 under the National Law No. 56/2006, it has to be the trial of any person before the normal judge of the crime where the accused, who held his jurisdiction in accordance with applicable national law's consideration of such a trial, and not to be tried before special courts problem for the purpose of consideration of this trial or group of trials identified exclusively, or in front of courts of competent jurisdiction, and that is before the independent and impartial court, which states that ((1. people are all equal before the courts, and the right of every individual, in the adjudication of any charge criminal charge against him or of his rights and obligations in a suit at law, shall be entitled to a fair and public hearing by a competent, independent and impartial ,..)), and this is something abiotic in such situation, as the competent court is a crime against them High Criminal Court, which fall within the ordinary courts, while the trial is a special court established by the authority under the decree by which it proclaimed the start of the state of National Safety in 15/03/2011 (note that it is not similar to the situation of martial law under the Constitution of Bahrain) and to consider a range of issues from which this case, a court that does not comply with local laws, and provisions of the Constitution, as it is established by the executive branch, while the Under article (105) of the Constitution of Bahrain to be the establishment of courts and their terms of reference under an Act of the legislature, (( A law shall regulate the courts of different kinds and degrees and specifies their functions and powers.)).

By a third, it is the Court have not met the conditions of independence, which followed some of the military who have been appointed to this court for the purposes of these issues by the commander of the army, did not provide Decree on the establishment of any immunities to them than isolation, under which it can be to the commander of the army at any time of dismissal, as well as he can exercise pressure on them because of the military rank the highest in the army and the military are subject to him.

And by the fourth, the party exercising the investigation and prosecution against them in the case is the military prosecutor, which is not the competent authority according to local laws to initiate these procedures, where the competent authority is the Attorney General as provided for in the Criminal Procedure Code (No. 46/2002) and proceed the military prosecutor of military justice that follow the procedures under this decree, which announced the start of the Authority of the state of National Safety in 03/15/2011 (note that it is not similar to the situation of martial law under the Constitution of Bahrain, and are lower ranking ones)

And by the fifth, the provisions of these special courts will be subject to appeal before a court of another special court is the National Safety appeal, namely the problem and made up the same way the first court will not be available for the accused to challenge the provisions of the Court of Cassation in accordance with the provisions of the decree declaring a state of safety, in an unprecedented even in the military judiciary, which are the death sentences to the Court of de jure discrimination, as is the case with the ordinary courts, while missing the citizens subject of this discourse of such a guarantee, despite the seriousness of the penalty they face, will not consider the verdicts of death against them by the Court of Cassation, which is the Supreme Court in the judiciary in relation to the death penalty in particular.

We are in this context to point out that the principles of Effective Prevention and Investigation of Extra-legal, arbitrary and summary executions without trial issued under the resolution of the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations No. 65/1989, adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations by its resolution 44/163, clearly confirm that the authorities responsible for the prevention and criminalization of all extra-legal, arbitrary and summary executions without trial, and that may not be invoked in exceptional situations, including the situation of internal political instability or any other public emergency as a justification of such executions.

In the context of that we expect to issue the death sentence on 4/26/2011, as the Court ruled the second meeting, on 19.04.2011 postponed consideration of the case for final arguments on 24.4.2011. Based on That, we hope you and your contributions under the mandate as Special Rapporteur on arbitrary executions, which authorizes you to provide urgent appeals to governments on the cases expected for the execution of arbitrary, summary and declarations urgent and make recommendations to the High Commissioner for Human Rights to take active measures to prevent these executions, and the actions available to you to urge the Bahraini authorities to undo this quest for the implementation of this penalty arbitrary and stop violation of its obligations towards the international community established in the International Covenant on Political and to stop the violations of human rights through these trials conducted in fair, equitable and unfair, even according to national law in force under any circumstances, including when a state of National Safety, stressing that what is established in article (4) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights does not apply in this case, if the exceptional measures that are taken must always be compatible with national laws in force and provided guarantees for human rights and allow in these exceptional circumstances, which is not achieved, as Article (105) of the Bahraini Constitution of 2002 is clear in emphasizing that it is not permissible to conduct such military trials at the application of the state of national integrity, and Article (123) which confirms that there may be that the authorities of violating any guarantee of any right enshrined in the Constitution, including the right to sue before the normal judge.

Finally, we thank you for your interest and your attitudes toward sincere human rights issues, hoping that the invitation received a quick response from you.

———- Forwarded message ———-

From: Sarah Moahmmed <msafar1981@gmail.com>
Date: Tue, Apr 26, 2011 at 7:08 AM
Subject: Hello
Good morning,
I am writing and we are still under a terrible raid on daily basis. More than 15 students were detained yesterday early morning. My uncle was detained for hours and then he was set free after he severly beaten. Many other people were subject to harrassment, especially from medical staff in different clinics all over the state.
I have a invested some money in [redacted], and yesterday they attacked the place. They destroyed lots of the equipment and they wrote dirty language on the walls. It is worth mentioning that the place is owned by a Kuwaiti Prince, and I doubt if they know that.
It is really getting so stressful. It is now all in the hands of the US to take the initiative and stop this bloodshed and terror. I really don't know how our voice could be heard, and how we can prove to the world that we are suffering and we need help.
hope things go better soon.
Best,
peace:)
———- Forwarded message ———-

From: Randy Martin <rmartin@mysticmule.net>
Date: Tue, Apr 26, 2011 at 1:22 PM
Subject: fyi – new letters from Amal
see letters (very minor differences) to Secretary William Hague, Foreign
& Commonwealth Office, UK. Embassy in Bahrain and Secretary Clinton.
———- Forwarded message ———-
Date: Mon, Apr 25, 2011 at 6:37 AM
Subject: Re: creepy
Bahrain 2011, or Oceania 1984??
___________________________________________________________________________
Bahrain News Agency: Bahrain Youths role in Social Media
– Hide quoted text –
Manama, April. 14 (BNA) — Many individuals within a society tend to underestimate the impact of deliberate spread of false information. They often fail to realize the size of damage that can occur, in a blink of an eye, by one simple click.
There are several factors that set up a convenient environment for the rise of such irresponsible actions.
The recent events witnessed by the Kingdom of Bahrain are a perfect example, by taking advantage of the chaotic atmosphere, the unstable emotional and mental state experienced by the people who would normally cling to any sort of hint concerning their critical situations.
Furthermore, the rapid emergence of advanced methods of communication appearing through an endless list of Instant messaging applications such as twitter, blackberry messenger, whatSapp, etc. is the ultimate technique designed initially to communicate faster. However, these applications are perfect platforms for those who Intentionally seek to publish false information for different reasons.
Throughout the unfortunate events, youth occupied the furthermost active hype; therefore, we were able to interview a number of college students, who fall under the same category and were kind enough to share their points of view with Bahrain News Agency (BNA).
Salman Bubshait, 23; “On one hand Social media networks allowed us to express our loyalty and patriotism to this country, though I only broadcast verified significant messages, rumors and false information stirred sectarian hatred amongst the people, I personally relied on Bahrain TV for local news, as well as ministries announcements on Twitter, Facebook, and friends present at the scene.”
Aisha Janahi, 25; “I usually use BlackBerry Messenger and Twitter, and it’s very important to me that I broadcast the factual reality and repeal false information that affected every citizen loyal and faithful to his country’s leadership. Rumors and baseless talks through social media had a huge part in exaggerating the situations, and thanks to Allah and the Bahrain’s wise leadership, life is back and safety had returned with the presence of the Peninsula Shield.”
Muneera Al doseri, 21; “Social media networks ensured the deliverance of important news, facts and announcements across the globe! and I always consider the truthfulness and its dependable sources like local confirmed sources before publicizing any messages that could be rumors that presented continuous distress, fear and anxiety.”
Mohammed Al Malki, 27; “Lately it became very difficult to distinguish the truth from the lies, especially with the highly new developed technical innovations, thus I focus on broadcasting messages that calm the situation away from sectarianism. During Bahrain’s unfortunate events social media networks were double-bladed sword, transmitting information, news and opinions, and therefore escalating the situation amongst parties.
I initially watched various news channels, until I recognized those sources like Bahrain TV followed by Wissal TV and a few more, that were credible and transparent in providing genuine facts including all sects of the Kingdom.”
Naeema Al Junaid, 23; “Shocked by many discreditable news sources, we waited impatiently for any news or information from official reliable local sources. The availability of constantly updated information of various location’s situations helped a lot, yet again it allowed a lot of people’s involvement in topics and matters not of their concern.
It became very hard to trust any source and thus I don’t believe anything unless seen with my own eyes.”
Nouf Al Qahtani, 21; “I believe that 70% of Bahrain situation was segregated through the sectarian rumors and broadcast messages, and therefore I am against them all, unfortunately the negative impact of Facebook and Twitter outweighed their positive ones in recent events, since people were misusing them instead of trying to fix things, which I think is due to lack of awareness, and absence of the will to control the situation. The crisis made it very difficult to trust the credibility of any source. Yet I depend mostly on local newspapers and television, since BTV was right where everything happened, so nothing can possibly be more truthful.”
Othman Mohammed, 20; Rumors has always triggered negativity between people. I’ve always enjoyed social networking (BBM, FB, Twitter) but during the recent situation in Bahrain most aspects of our lives turned undesirably, and pressured our participation in matters that isn’t worth argument, many individuals managed to shine while many others failed to restore their lost image. Thanks to Allah and the government, its leaders, and the unity of the citizens and residents of Bahrain security and stability is back.
MYZ / WOA

Date : 2011/04/14
———- Forwarded message ———-

Date: Fri, Apr 22, 2011 at 3:00 PM
Subject: McGovern, Payne, Baldwin denounce human rights abuses in Bahrain
To: "Colin S. Cavell, Ph.D. @ GMail" <ccavell@gmail.com>

McGovern, Payne, Baldwin denounce human rights abuses in Bahrain

Thursday April 21, 2011

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Donald M. Payne, Ranking Member on the Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health and Human Rights, came together with Congressman James McGovern and Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin to issue the following statement:

“We would like to express our deep concern over the deteriorating human rights situation in Bahrain and our support for the aspiration and peaceful struggle of the people of Bahrain. We are troubled by the deteriorating health of prominent human rights activist and nursing mother, Zainab al-Khawaja, who began a hunger strike on April 9th 2011 to raise attention to the violent arrest of her father, husband and brother-in-law.

Activists who speak out against the Bahraini government’s repressive campaign have endured arrests and threats to themselves or their families. Over the last two weeks, at least four protesters have died in police custody. We are deeply concerned with Bahrain’s attempt to stifle peaceful political opposition, including the attack on Bahrain’s largest opposition group, the Shiite bloc al-Wafaq.
The violent crackdown by Bahraini security forces on protesters and arbitrary arrests of political dissidents must not fall on deaf ears. The United States must not allow political alliances to prevent us from denouncing human rights abuses, particularly when they are perpetrated against peaceful demonstrators.
Bahrain must ensure the security of detainees and we urge the Administration to insist on the release of those detained for peacefully opposing the Bahraini regime. We also call for an independent international investigation into the deaths of government-held protesters.

The United States must continue to support the democratic aspirations of all people. ”

Letter to President Obama on Human Rights in Bahrain ( 04/21/11 10:57 AM PST )

________________________________________

________________________________________
NOTE from csc:
[The video posting which immediately follows is from a supporter of the monarchy who would like that the regime's version of events be distributed as well. I'll post it below without commentary this time, and let you viewers make up your own minds as to which truth you will adhere to.]
———- Forwarded message ———-

Date: Thu, Apr 28, 2011 at 1:30 PM
Subject: worth of watching – Bahrain criminals confessions