al-Wefaq threatens to boycott the parliamentary elections in Bahrain

Rasa - The main opposition party in Bahrain, al-Wefaq, has threatened to boycott the parliamentary elections if the government and the opposition do not reach a political settlement.

News ID: 1306

Date: 04 October 2014 - 19:13

RNA - “If the situation remains the same, I will not participate in elections, and they ask you to not participate. It is our basic right,” said Ali Salman, the secretary-general of the al-Wefaq National Islamic Society after participating in a protest.

After congregational prayers on Friday, the Bahraini people took to the streets to protest against the country’s king, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifah and his followers.

Protesters also reaffirmed their commitment to the goals of the revolution and their opposition to the measures of the Al Khalifah regime.

According to Salman, opponents and proponents of the elections have the power to decide to go to the polls or not, since freedom of expression is a right that every person possesses. “You can not forbid people to attend the elections or force her to participate in them,” he added.

In conclusion, he stressed that if the situation in Bahrain remains unchanged and no reform plans are presented by the government, groups and opposition parties will hold a press conference and announce their final position on future elections.

Since February 2011, Bahrain has been the scene of almost daily demonstrations, which are suppressed by the security forces supported by Saudi Arabian and Emirati militias with logistical support from Western countries, primarily the United States.

The release of political prisoners, the withdrawal of Saudi forces in the country and the end of the monarchy, in power for over 40 years, are among the main demands of the protesters.

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