Bahrain Opposition Leader Sheikh Ali Salman Arrested

Leader of Bahrain’s main opposition movement, al-Wefaq, has been arrested after a day of questioning at the interior ministry.

Sheikh Ali Salman was summoned for questioning about what it called “violating certain aspects of law,” the ministry said.

His lawyer said he has been accused of claims of “inciting hatred against the regime”.
Sheikh Salman joined thousands of Muslims at a protest in the capital Manama on Friday, demanding social reforms in the kingdom.

Peaceful demonstrations against the ruling monarchy, have been continuing for the past three years, with thousands arrested.

In a statement, al-Wefaq described Sheikh Salman’s arrest as “a perilous and arbitrary adventure which will seriously complicate the political and security scene in Bahrain”.

Clashes between his supporters and security forces erupted outside his house near Manama after his arrest was announced.

The interior ministry said his case is being referred to the public prosecutors.

Furthermore, Al-Wefaq announced the postponement of its declared press conference until the end of the investigation with the Sheikh Salman.

The 49-year-old secured a fourth term as head of the opposition group at its general congress on Friday.

Al-Wefaq was founded in 2002, a year after Bahrain announced political reforms in which the country became a constitutional monarchy with an elected parliament and an independent judiciary.