Bahrainis widen protests to mark Feb. 11 revolution

Ahead of February 14, the anniversary of Bahrain’s popular uprising, a three-day strike has started in the Persian Gulf Arab kingdom by the closure of businesses.

Last week, Bahraini opposition and political activists called for a three-day public strike and overall demonstrations to mark the fourth anniversary of their uprising on February 14.

The opposition parties said they are preparing for a general strike starting on Wednesday, Feb 11, at 8:00 p.m. (local time) and running until Saturday, Feb 14.

The opposition also asked the Bahrainis to stop any deal or commercial transaction with the government and refuse to purchase goods or go to gas stations, and make the streets empty of vehicles during the three-day strike.

Protests widen

Meanwhile, protests continued in Bilad al-Qadeem and a number of other Bahraini towns near the capital Manama on Wednesday, 46 days since the top Shia opposition leader, Sheikh Ali Salman, was arrested.

Protesters shouted slogans demanding the release of Salman and other prisoners of conscience despite the heavy crackdown by tear gas-firing police.

Bahraini forces also raided a number of houses in the villages of Dumistan, Eker, Sanabis, Sar and Bilad al-Qadeem in the suburbs of Manama.

Salman was arrested on charges of seeking regime change and collaborating with foreign powers. The cleric denies the charges.