al Khalifa in dellusional rhetoric fails to understand “business as usual” is not acceptable

Bahrain’s opposition to boycott dialogue, elections
By shiapost – June 28, 2011Posted in: Bahrain

MANAMA: Bahrain’s largest Shiite opposition group says it will boycott the national dialogue next month and the September parliament elections in protest against the authorities for “not doing enough.”

Al Wefaq National Islamic Society said it was in no mood to give in to the authorities’ call for a national dialogue starting July 1st that would attract 300 participants from political societies, human rights groups and civil society organizations.

“There has to be real dialogue that results in political reforms. We believe the dialogue was a step forward for the country but setting conditions before the process is not acceptable,” said Al Wefaq leader Shaikh Ali Salman.

He told Xinhua that it was important for the government to first address all issues such as sacking of workers, arrest of medics, lawmakers and other citizens before entering any dialogue.

“This dialogue will be successful if there is a principal person from Royal Family like the Crown Prince present in the process. He understands the demand and the opposition sees him as a leader, who could solve this crisis.”

National Dialogue spokesperson, Isa Abdulrahman said in a statement on Monday that refusal of any group to participate in the National Dialogue will “not mean failure of the initiative.” “We hope that all those invited would participate to come out with resolutions that represent the needs and aspirations of all people in Bahrain,” he said.

Regarding the non-confirmation of Al Wefaq’s attendance, Abdulrahman said he hoped all parties would participate in healthy and smooth talks.

However, he assured that refusal of some societies to participate does not mean dialogue failure.

“The success of talks could be determined with fruitful talks, good approach and implementation of its recommendations,” he said.

But it is not only the National Dialogue the Shiite opposition is boycotting, Shaikh Ali said their party has no interest to contest in the by-elections on September 24. It would be held in 18 Shiite dominant constituencies. “I don’t see us participating in these elections as the demand and issues faced by people is more important and is still ignored, ” he said. …more