Political society activist gets jail for hate speech

Manama

Bahrain Advocate General Haroon Al-Zayani confirmed that the Higher Criminal Court sentenced the secretary general of one of Bahrain’s political societies to four years imprisonment on charges of publicly inciting hatred, an act which disturbed public peace, inciting non-compliance with the law and insulting public institutions. The defendant was acquitted of all other charges.

‫ The case was referred to the court following the conclusion of investigations by the Public Prosecution on a complaint filed by the General Directorate of Crime Detection and Forensics.

 The charges were levelled against the defendant, in full accordance with Bahrain’s Penal Code, following investigations into recordings of public speeches and sermons that promoted extremist views, which constituted a clear contravention of the law.

 The defendant repeatedly made public threats about the option to deploy military tactics in the Kingdom. He called on global powers to intervene in the Kingdom’s internal affairs and seek support to overthrow the legitimate regime.

 The defendant was interrogated on the content of his public speech recordings in the presence of four lawyers. In his speeches, he called for the reinstatement of the disbanded Islamic Council of Scholars, as well as incitement against Bahraini citizens by accusing them of disloyalty and terrorist acts. He further called for their deportation from Bahrain.

 The defendant publically announced that the opposition was offered military assistance, such as the assistance given to members of the Syrian opposition. The defendant also held meetings abroad with groups that offered him access to arms.

 The defendant admitted to delivering the public speeches and sermons that were highlighted by the investigation. Hence the Public Prosecution presented its case at the Higher Criminal Court, where the trial took place on six consecutive sessions.

 The Advocate General confirmed that the defendant had been afforded full legal rights, and provided with the opportunity to meet with his family and legal team throughout the trial. He was given the opportunity to plea and present his defence.