Bahrain Freedom Movement

Press Release: Around noon time today, t he Bahraini Authorities ordered the transfer of activists; Dr. Mohamed Saeed Al-Sahlawi (dentist-35 yrs), Hussain Abdulaziz Al Hebshi (employee-32 yrs) to the Lower Court on January 7th, 2007 including their custody until then.

The Bahraini Public Prosecution accused them of “favouritism and promotion of the changing systems of the State through illegal means and without a legitimate reason” and “spreading false news and exciting rumors, which would cause disruption of public security, and damage public interest”m because of acquisition of internet-downloaded publications calling for boycotting last election. These charges come under a special chapter in the Penal Code- no 15 of 1976- dedicated to State Security crimes, which means the possibility of facing from two to five years imprisonment or fine or both.

The decision of transfer their case- of possession of publication calling for boycott of the election-to the court indicates the Authorities persistence to escalate the situation amidst the continued popular protest calling for their unconditional release, on the basis that possession of publication of point of views is not traditionally considered to be a crime. The families of the detainees of conscience, their supporters and activists have carried out, this afternoon, a sit-in protesting such decision. The Security Authorities have attacked the last candle vigil called upon by the families and used force to disperse the gathering near Geant Superstore in Bahrain Mall. Popular protests calling for their release are expect to boost in the near future, which warns of potential clashes by the Security Forces, consequently subjecting social peace and stability to unrest and deterioration.

Therefore, the Committee of Activists call upon all international organization concerned with the freedom of expression, and protection of activists and human right defenders to:

Ä     address the Bahraini Authorities calling for the release of publication detainees, and

Ä     issue press release condemning this escalation in dealing with exercising freedom of expression and targeting activists.

This act by the concerned organization is to prevent any deterioration in the current situation and help in commencing a phase of unrest and destabilization in the social security. It will also send a clear message of support of these organizations to the freedom of expression and protection of these activists.

Committee of Solidarity with Activists and Detainees of Conscience in Bahrain

  December 27, 2006