Protesters March as Bahrain courts deny justice, maintains oppressive verdict against jailed activists

Bahrain court verdict against jailed activists sparks protests
7 January, 2013 – PressTV

Angry protests have erupted in Bahrain in reaction to a court verdict against 13 jailed opposition activists.

Protesters set tires on fire and blocked main roads in several towns and villages near the capital, Manama, on Monday, when Bahrain’s highest court upheld sentences handed down to the political activists for organizing demonstrations against the Al Khalifa regime.

A military court originally issued the sentences in 2011. The rulings, which range from five years in prison to life sentences, were upheld by a civilian court in September 2012.

The Monday ruling was the last chance the 13 had to reverse their convictions, which Amnesty International has described as an outrage. The rights organization has urged the Bahraini regime to overturn the sentences.

Those given life sentences include prominent human rights activist Abdulhadi al-Khawaja and opposition leader Hassan Mushaima.

The Bahraini uprising began in February 2011. The regime promptly launched a brutal crackdown on peaceful protests and called in Saudi-led Arab forces from neighboring states.

Bahraini police have frequently used tear gas and rubber bullets against the demonstrators. Security forces have also arrested hundreds of people, including doctors and nurses.

A report published by the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry in November 2011, found that the Al Khalifa regime had used excessive force in the crackdown. It accused Manama of torturing political activists, politicians, and protesters.

Bahraini protesters say they will continue holding anti-regime demonstrations until their demand for the establishment of a democratically elected government is met. …source