Bahraini Opposition Calls for Massive Strike, Rallies on Revolution Anniversary
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Bahrain's opposition groups and political activists called for a three-day public strike and massive demonstrations on the occasion of the anniversary of the Arab country’s revolution on February 14.
The Bahraini opposition groups said they are preparing for the general strike, which will start on Wednesday, February 11, at 8 p.m. (local time) and will last until Saturday, February 14.
The opposition also called on the people of the tiny Persian Gulf country to participate in the general strike and hold anti-regime rallies from February 6 to 7 in solidarity with political activists and figures jailed by the Al Khalifa regime, according to Manama Post, an Arabic language news website.
The groups also explained that during the three-day strike, people should take some measures including, closing all shopping centers, turning off the lights outside their houses, refusing to go to work, school or universities, except medical personnel.
The opposition also asked the Bahrainis to stop any deal or commercial transaction with government and refuse to purchase goods or go to gas stations, and make the streets empty of vehicles during the three-day strike.
The uprising in Bahrain began on February 14, 2011. Protesters initially called for political reforms and a constitutional monarchy. However, the demand later changed to an outright call for the ouster of the Al Khalifa family following its brutal crackdown on popular protests.
Scores of people have been killed in the crackdown and security forces have arrested hundreds including doctors and nurses. Dozens of demonstrators have also been sentenced to jail terms for attending street protests.
International human rights organizations have repeatedly criticized the Manama regime for its excessive use of force against peaceful protesters.
