Bahrain opposition leader charged with attempted coup

The public prosecutor in Bahrain has charged the Secretary General of Al-Wifaq Association, Shaikh Ali Salman, with “attempts to change the political regime by force” through a coup. Al-Araby Al-Jadid reported on Monday that a spokesman for Shia opposition group Al-Wifaq described the charges as “unreal” and having “no legal value”. They are not, he added, even recognised by Salman himself.

The lawyer acting for Shaikh Salman said that his client has also been charged with inciting people to break the law and inciting hatred of a specific sect. The Major Criminal Court hearing will be held on 28 January, he revealed.

The authorities have, said the lawyer, guaranteed that Salman will be tried through a proper legal process, and would be able to consult with his defence team throughout. The Wifaq official has been provided with prayer breaks and had meetings with his lawyers in prison. He has also signed his official statements, having had sufficient time to read them.

Meanwhile, Al-Wifaq denied the accusations and said there was no legal or moral justification for Salman being remanded in custody before the hearing.