Islam Times - Bahrain revolution – a 35 years struggle

Islam Times - Bahrain revolutionary struggle started long before February 14th, 2011. For the past 35 years the people of Bahrain have carried within a democratic dream, a thirst for reforms and change which so far has remained unattainable.

Since its inception, revolutionaries, or rather pro-democracy activists have worked to see the following achieved:

•    The establishment of a constitutional monarchy whereby the government would be elected by the people in keeping with democratic values. Under the present system, the King remains the main source of power.

•    The immediate and unconditional release of Shia clerics and activists. Al Khalifa has ran a vicious crackdown against the Shia community, likening its members to terrorists and dangerous dissidents.

•    The dissolution of the House of Representatives and the abolition of the Shura Council’s legislative powers.

•    The respect of political freedom, media freedom and freedom of expression.

•    The establishment of a fair naturalization system. Under the new law, King Hamad bin Issa Al Khalifa has institutionalized a segregationist and punitive system against the Shia community.

•    Religious freedom. Under the Al Khalifa regime Shia mosques and religious centers have been attacked, destroyed and raided. Shrines have been defiles and religious figures brutalized.

Following years of persecution Bahrainis call for the establishment of just system which will represent their aspirations and allow Bahrain to flourish as a modern society.