Bahrain may 'include opposition minister', says official 1 hour, 35 minutes ago

Bahrain's new government, which should be formed after a second round of elections on Saturday, may include a minister close to the Shiite opposition, an official told AFP.

The Islamic National Accord Association (INAA), the main party of the Shiite majority, clinched 16 seats in the 40-member parliament and seems assured of winning at least one more in a second round on Saturday.

The new cabinet "may include a personality close to INAA," the official said on condition of anonymity.

He said it would be "a technocrat," adding that this "witnesses a willingness to promote political life" in the Gulf monarchy.

EU says elections in Bahrain have consolidated democratic process

Brussels, Nov 29, IRNA
EU-Bahrain-Elections
The European Union welcomed Wednesday the parliamentary elections in Bahrain, the first round of which was held on Saturday.

"The higher turnout compared to the previous elections held in 2002 shows that the Bahraini people have embraced the importance of the electoral process in developing a democratic state," said the current Finnish EU Presidency in a statement.

"The EU is convinced that the elections have further consolidated the democratic process in the Kingdom of Bahrain," it added.

By William Wallis in Cairo

Published: November 29 2006 02:00 | Last updated: November 29 2006 02:00

Bahrain is unlikely to feature on the agenda when US President George W. Bush meets Nouri al-Maliki, the Iraqi prime minister, in Jordan tomorrow in search of a magic formula to turn the tide of violence in Iraq.

But the tiny Gulf kingdom - host to the US 5th naval fleet - has been buffeted too by the shifting winds of US policy in the region and will be looking to Mr Bush for signs of any fresh change in direction. Because Bahrain, located near Iraq, is also divided between Islam's two predominant sects, the spreading fall-out from the sectarian killing in Iraq is also magnified there.

Video of a press conference by Dr Salah Al Bandar at the UK House of Lords in London, organized by Lord Avebury on October 5 2006.

Dr Al Bandar discusses the "Bandargate scandal", a conspiracy by high-level government officials to suppress the Shia majority of Bahrain. For details about the scandal, refer to the following documents:

• The Report: What it says
• Conspiring Against the Shia
• All related documents

Part 1:

Bahrain's victorious Shiites look to reassure Sunnis
by Mohammad Fadhel
Mon Nov 27, 7:30 AM ET

Bahrain's Shiite opposition, which made a spectacular entry into the Gulf state's parliament, will initially tread cautiously in order to reassure Sunnis and promote dialogue with the Sunni-led regime, analyists said.

The Islamic National Accord Association (INAA), the main formation of the Shiite majority, clinched 16 seats in the 40-member parliament in Saturday's polls and seems assured of winning at least one more in a second round on December 2.

But the INAA will "not raise explosive issues liable to create tensions with the government in the first three months" of the new chamber's term, said Abdul Hussein al-Metqawie, one of the 16 new INAA lawmakers.

In Bahrain, Democracy Activists Regret Easing of U.S. Pressure

By Faiza Saleh Ambah
Washington Post Foreign Service
Monday, November 27, 2006; A16

MANAMA, Bahrain, Nov. 26 -- Bahrain's government has touted parliamentary elections here as a model for regional reform and a milestone for democracy. But critics say the polls are similar to those in many Arab countries: designed to give the appearance of democracy while maintaining the government's tight grip on power.

Although many countries in the region have introduced various degrees of political participation, from limited municipal councils in Saudi Arabia to spirited parliaments in Kuwait and Yemen, the reforms have consistently fallen short of the freedoms democracy activists have sought.

November 27, 2006
Strong Showing for Opposition Party in Bahrain Elections
By HASSAN M. FATTAH
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Nov. 26 — Shiite opposition candidates won 16 of the 17 seats they contested in Saturday’s parliamentary elections in Bahrain, the country’s election commission said Sunday.

The opposition now holds 40 percent of the elected Parliament’s 40 seats, with the 17th contested seat to be decided in a runoff on Dec. 2.

But leaders of the predominantly Shiite opposition party, the Wefaq National Islamic Society, said the gains, which were expected, might not translate into much political power. Government loyalists may retain control of much of the remainder of the lower house, depending on the outcome of the runoff. Furthermore, the upper house, which is appointed by King Hamad al-Khalifa, can overrule any act of the lower house.

Great day for democracy in Bahrain
11/26/2006 7:18:00 PM GMT

The United States barks about democracy in the Middle East only when that serves its economic, military, or strategic interests.

But when free and fair elections take place in the Middle East, the U.S. either ignores or tries to block the recurrence of such events.

An example of that is what happened in the Palestinian territories. When fair and democratic elections produced undesirable results for the U.S., it attempted in every possible way to change the outcome of these elections, i.e. topple the Hamas-led government.

Bahrain Shiites ahead in election

MANAMA, Bahrain (Reuters) -- Bahrain's main Shiite Muslim opposition won 16 of parliament's 40 seats but the group said on Sunday it doubted the strong showing would yield much political power in the Sunni-led kingdom.

According to results announced by the justice minister, the Al-Wefaq National Islamic Society secured 16 of the 17 seats it sought and the remaining seat will be decided in a runoff on Dec. 2. The group won 18 municipal seats in Saturday's polls, with official figures putting voter turnout at 72 percent.

The results could give majority Shi'ites a bigger role in the political life of the pro-Western Gulf Arab state, which is ruled by a Sunni monarch.

Islamists do well in Bahrain poll
By William Wallis in Manama

Published: November 26 2006 17:32 | Last updated: November 26 2006 17:32

Elections in Bahrain looked set on Sunday to deliver a parliament dominated by Islamists but divided along sectarian lines, reflecting both a regional surge towards political Islam as well as heightened tensions between Sunni and Shia Muslims.

However, some Bahrainis complained that the results would not reflect the diversity of opinion in the island kingdom, host to the US Navy’s fifth fleet and traditionally more liberal than other Gulf states.

An elderly Bahraini man casts his vote inside a polling station in Manama, Bahrain November 25, 2006. Bahrainis began voting in the small Gulf state's national elections on Saturday, amid tension between the government and the opposition which boycotted polls in the pro-Western kingdom in 2002. REUTERS/Ahmed Jadallah (BAHRAIN)

Bahrain Polls Crowded in Tense Elections

By JIM KRANE
The Associated Press
Saturday, November 25, 2006; 5:34 PM

MANAMA, Bahrain -- The Shiite Muslim majority in this small U.S.-allied Persian Gulf nation hoped to increase its political power Saturday in parliamentary elections that have worsened frictions with Bahrain's dominant Sunnis.

With similar tensions weighing heavily on neighboring Arab countries planning their own steps toward democracy, campaigning in Bahrain was marred by sectarian fear-mongering and a backlash against 18 women candidates. Voting also bore signs of organized corruption.

Bahrain Expects Huge Election Turnout
Bahrain Expects Huge Voter Turnout After Divisive Election Campaign
By JIM KRANE
The Associated Press
MANAMA, Bahrain - Campaigning has been dirty and divisive ahead of parliamentary elections Saturday in this U.S. Gulf ally: Mobile text messages warn voters that a landmark Shiite Muslim victory would turn Bahrain into a new Iraq and that female candidates will spread immorality.

Shiites, in turn, accuse the Sunni-run government of plotting to rig the ballot against them in the first election where they stand a chance of turning their demographic majority into political power.

MANAMA, Bahrain, Nov. 24 — For the past month, they have promised the world to voters in this tiny island kingdom off the east coast of Saudi Arabia: better housing, better jobs, higher salaries, and better services. One has even promised greater dignity.

But as more than 200 candidates vied for a seat in Bahrain’s 40-member elected Parliament, the one thing that many were not prepared to promise was far-reaching political change.

“When I speak to supporters, I feel I have to acknowledge, yes, not much is going to change,” said Sheik Ali Salman, the leader of the Wefaq National Islamic Society, Bahrain’s leading opposition movement, which is predominantly Shiite and is vying for 17 seats in Parliament.

BMANAMA, Bahrain (Reuters) -- Bahrainis began voting in the small Gulf state's national elections on Saturday, amid tension between the government and the Shiite Muslim opposition which boycotted polls in the pro-Western kingdom in 2002.

The main opposition group has warned the Sunni-led authorities that any attempt to rig the parliamentary and municipal elections would be vigorously opposed.

Election officials have denied charges of election irregularities and the authorities have set up an election hotline to receive complaints.

Sheikh Ali Salman, head of Al-Wefaq National Islamic Society that represents Shiites, says his group would know the polls were rigged if it did not win 13 of parliament's 40 seats.

Google Earth spurs Bahraini equality drive
By William Wallis in Manama

Published: November 24 2006 21:29 | Last updated: November 24 2006 21:29

Since Bahrain’s government blocked the Google Earth website earlier this year for its intrusion into private homes and royal palaces, Googling their island kingdom has become a national pastime for many Bahrainis.

The site allows internet users to view satellite images of the world in varying degrees of detail. When Google updated its images of Bahrain to higher definition, cyber-activists seized on the view it gave of estates and private islands belonging to the ruling al-Khalifa family to highlight the inequity of land distribution in the tiny Gulf kingdom.

Tensions and apathy color Bahrain elections
By Hassan M. Fattah
The New York Times
One is a former banker who has been smeared as a "Godless communist." Another is a Shiite cleric who previously boycotted the system he now hopes to join. Another has been detained twice by security officials, accused of ties to Al Qaeda.

They are among 200 candidates vying for seats in Bahrain's 40-member Parliament, promising better housing, jobs and services in this tiny island kingdom off the eastern coast of Saudi Arabia.

Almost all, however, have bluntly warned their supporters not to expect much political change in the process.

Discord Attends Bahrain Election
Charges Against Ruling Sunni Minority Mar Run-Up to Saturday Vote

By Faiza Saleh Ambah
Washington Post Foreign Service
Saturday, November 25, 2006; A08

MANAMA, Bahrain -- Friction between Sunni and Shiite Muslims in this strategic Persian Gulf kingdom, which is holding its second parliamentary elections in three decades, has clouded the voting set here for Saturday.

The campaign for the National Assembly's 40-member lower house has been marred by an alleged plot by a senior government official to rig the elections in favor of the ruling Sunni minority.

Bahrain Expects Huge Election Turnout

By JIM KRANE
The Associated Press
Friday, November 24, 2006; 2:20 PM

MANAMA, Bahrain -- Campaigning has been dirty and divisive ahead of parliamentary elections Saturday in this U.S. Gulf ally: Mobile text messages warn voters that a landmark Shiite Muslim victory would turn Bahrain into a new Iraq and that female candidates will spread immorality.

Shiites, in turn, accuse the Sunni-run government of plotting to rig the ballot against them in the first election where they stand a chance of turning their demographic majority into political power.

Bahraini men chant anti-government slogans during a demonstration in Manama, Bahrain November 24, 2006. About 2,000 protesters chanting 'down with the government' gathered in the capital Manama, demanding an investigation into alleged election irregularities. Tensions were high on Friday ahead of Bahrain's parliamentary elections with the leader of the Shi'ite Muslim opposition warning the Sunni-led authorities that any attempt to rig the vote would be vigorously opposed. REUTERS/Ahmed Jadallah (BAHRAIN)

Bahrain expects huge voter turnout after divisive election campaign

The Associated Press
Freewheeling campaigning for this island kingdom's third-ever parliamentary election came to a close Friday, a day ahead of a historic vote being closely watched in neighboring Persian Gulf monarchies. Huge turnout is expected when polls open Saturday.

Campaigning has been fierce and dirty, with rally tents vandalized, allegations of secret government funding for favored candidates and torrents of text messages flooding mobile phones. Anonymous messages warn Sunni Muslims to back pro-government candidates against the Shiite Muslim-led opposition or face Iraq-style chaos.

Nov 23rd 2006 | MANAMA
From The Economist print edition

But if Bahrainis boycott the vote, change may come in a less welcome way

TOURIST brochures call Bahrain a land of golden smiles. It is true that this tiny island kingdom in the Gulf is a quiet, friendly and mildly prosperous place. But in the run-up to elections seen as a crucial test for democracy in an autocratic region, few smiles are in evidence.

Bahraini natives, who make up two-thirds of the archipelago's 750,000 residents, have reason to be sceptical of the election on November 25th. When he acceded to the throne in 1999, King Hamad al-Khalifa made himself hugely popular by ending a 25-year-long state of emergency that had seen thousands arbitrarily arrested and hundreds sent into exile. But the reclusive king, said to be pressured by conservatives in his family, then broke a promise to revive earlier rules whereby three-quarters of parliamentary seats were freely elected.

Bahrainis to elect their second post-reform parliament
(AFP)

24 November 2006

MANAMA - Bahrainis cast their ballots on Saturday to elect a new parliament, with the mostly-Shia opposition vying to seize a sizable representation after boycotting the last polls.

Polling was due to open at 0800 am (0500 GMT) on Saturday, 24 hours after the close of campaigning.

Some 295,000 eligible voters will choose between 207 candidates, including 17 women, to elect 39 MPs in a similar number of constituencies.

One seat in the 40-strong chamber has already gone to Latifa Al Qouhoud -- a female candidate standing unopposed in her constituency -- making her the first woman MP in the kingdom’s history.

Bahraini protesters demand release of activists Thu Nov 23, 2:04 PM ET
Bahraini police dispersed a small group of protesters who gathered in Manama to demand the release of two activists detained a week ago.
Some 50 people, including relatives of the pair arrested on November 16 and leaders of the Shiite-led opposition group Haq, rallied for about an hour before police ordered them to disperse, a participant said.

Sectarian tension overshadows Bahrain election as pressure for change grows
By William Wallis in Manama

Published: November 24 2006 02:00 | Last updated: November 24 2006 02:00

Bahrain's main Shia opposition group, el Wefaq National Islamic Society, is portraying tomorrow's parliamentary elections as a last chance to promote peaceful dialogue on the Gulf kingdom's political and economic future.

To cheers and chanting from thousands of supporters, Sheikh Ali Salman, the youthful leader of el Wefaq, warned at a rally this week that if the group's inclusion in parliament did not lead to meaningful change, frustration would boil over on to the streets.

MPs hope blacklist won't affect voting
By TARIQ KHONJI
Published: 24 November 2006

MPs named on a blacklist by the Bahrain Centre for Human Rights (BCHR) said they hoped it would not influence voters' decisions in tomorrow's elections.

The list named 19 MPs, including independents and members of Al Asala Islamic Society and Al Menbar Islamic Society.

The BCHR claims they contributed to human rights violations in the country by ratifying laws that restrict freedoms and contradict human rights norms, including the political societies law, the law on gatherings and demonstrations, the terrorism law and others.

Bahrain politics: Adversarial

November 23rd 2006

COUNTRY BRIEFING

FROM THE ECONOMIST INTELLIGENCE UNIT

Opposition parties are expected to make significant gains in Bahrain's parliamentary elections on November 25th, after four opposition groups decided to end an election boycott. This could potentially work to the advantage of the government, which has sought for some time to regulate opposition movements and bring them into the parliamentary fold. Yet persistent sectarian tensions in the Shia-majority but Sunni-ruled state, coupled with a recent uproar over a report alleging systematic vote-rigging, suggest the new parliament will be combative.

Main political players in Bahrain's elections
By AFP
Middle East Times
Published November 23, 2006

Bahrain, which goes to the polls Saturday to elect a new parliament and local councils, has more than a dozen active political "associations." Political parties remain banned, as they are in other Gulf monarchies.

Following are the main political associations, most of which are fielding candidates in the race for the 40-seat parliament:

- The Islamic National Accord Association (INAA), the main political formation of the Shiite majority and the biggest opposition group in the Sunni-ruled state.

Bahrain opposition fears poll fraud

Bahrain goes to the polls on Saturday

Days before legislative elections in Bahrain, the country's opposition has said it doubts the "fairness of the poll" and warned of possible rigging of the ballot by the government.

The left-leaning National Democratic Action Association [NDAA] has said 10 out-of-constituency public voting centres could be potential points for fraud.

Around 295,000 people are registered to vote in 39 voting centres in the same number of contested constituencies, in addition to 10 public centres.

Bahrain's Shia, who make up a majority of the population see Saturday's polls as a test for the reforms launched by the Sunni-led administration.

Q&A: Bahrain election
The Gulf state of Bahrain goes to the polls on Saturday to elect representatives to their lower house of parliament and five municipal councils.
Intense competition for each seat is expected after groups representing the Shia majority, who boycotted the last vote in 2002, decided to contest the election.

But although the monarchy has been praised in recent years for its democratic progress, recent moves by the Sunni-led authorities have led some to question its commitment to reform and human rights.

What are the major issues?

Although the government has gone some way towards easing the long-running conflict between Bahrain's Shia majority and the ruling Sunni minority, Sunni-Shia tension has again come to the fore.

‘Opposition will be strong this time’
Wefaq leader says no sectarian issues in Kingdom
Sandeep Singh Grewal
Staff Reporter

Al Wefaq National Islamic Society general secretary Shaikh Ali Salman yesterday asserted that the Kingdom did not face any sectarian issues though a lot of things had been said about it in the past.
He told mediapersons at the media centre at the Regency Intercontinental that the upcoming elections would see the emergence of a strong opposition that will work for public welfare.
Candidates from Capital, Muharraq and Northern governorates visited the centre through the day.

Ignorance main obstacle in HIV battle
By REBECCA TORR
Published: 23rd November 2006

IGNORANCE is still hindering the battle against HIV and Aids, along with community care for victims, according to results of a Bahrain survey revealed last night.

The survey, conducted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in collaboration with the Health Ministry over the last year, targeted Injecting Drug Users (IDUs), pregnant women and university students.

The most frequent misconception among survey participants was that HIV/Aids could be transmitted by mosquito bites. This was stated by 23 per cent of IDUs, and 40pc of students and pregnant women.

Unions oppose ban on strikes
By TARIQ KHONJI
Published: 23rd November 2006

UNION leaders yesterday pledged to demand that the new parliament change an order banning strikes at "vital facilities". They say that it takes away workers' most powerful tool against unjust employers.

The workers' representatives say that the edict issued by Prime Minister Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa this week is against International Labour Organ-isation (ILO) standards and agreements that Bahrain has entered into.

General Federation of Bahrain Trade Unions (GFBTU) vice secretary-general Sayed Salman Jaffer Al Mahfooz said workers should have been consulted before it was passed.

King approves three executions
By SARA SAMI
Published: 23rd November 2006

MANAMA: Death sentences against three people convicted separately of two savage murders have been approved by His Majesty King Hamad, it was announced last night. A maid and her accomplice, both Bangladeshi, will die for the murder of a Bahraini mother-of-two, Latifa Abdulla Abdulaziz, in November 2004.

A Pakistani man will be executed for the murder of his Bahraini lover's 72-year-old husband, in August 2003.

Public Prosecutor Ali bin Fadel Al Buainain received the King's written approval last night to carry out the sentences, originally imposed by the High Criminal Court and upheld on appeal by the Court of Cassation.

Letter to SR on Promotion & Protection of the Right to Freedom of Expression

Mr. Ambeyi LIGABO

The Special Rapporteur on the Promotion and the Protection of

the Right to Freedom of Opinion and Expression

Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights

United Nations Office at Geneva

CH-1211, Geneva 10 - Switzerland

BAHRAIN: Expressing themselves, Activists Face State Security Charges

Dear Mr. Ligabo,

We would like to express our deep concerns of detention and crimination of two Bahraini activists, Dr Mohamed Saeed Alsahlawi and Mr Husain Abdulaziz Alhebshi, who have been detained by the local Authorities because they have possesses leaflets and publication calling for the boycott of next election - See their case in the Appendix 1. The charges set forth by the Public Prosecution neglect their right for freedom of expression and could end up facing State security charges, leading to harsh penalties including prolonged imprisonment- See Appendix 2, below.

Bahrain Center for Human Rights
20 November 2006

Bahraini women face uphill election struggle
Web posted at: 11/23/2006 2:5:55
Source ::: AFP
MANAMA • Although women in Bahrain fare better than in other Gulf monarchies, the 18 female hopefuls in Saturday’s parliamentary polls still face an uphill struggle to get elected.

Eight women vied for elected office for the first time in the last parliamentary elections in 2002, but none managed to clinch a seat.

This time round there will be at least one female face in the 40-seat chamber – Latifa Al Qouhoud has already become the first woman MP in the country’s history after she stood unopposed in her constituency.

Salafi leader prefers Islamist parliament for 'nation's sake'
http://archive.gulfnews.com/region/Bahrain/10084607.html

11/22/2006 10:34 PM | By Habib Toumi Bureau Chief

Manama: Outgoing Chamber of Deputies second deputy speaker yesterday said that he looked forward to an Islamist parliament for the sake of the nation.

"I would rather have Islamists from both Sunni and Shiite sects than liberal deputies who do not uphold Islamic values," Al Mouawda told Gulf News.

The Salafi leader, known for his cordial relations with Bahrain's political formations and with the Shiite blocs, said an Islamic composition of the chamber would consolidate relations between the legislative body and the general public and would serve them better.

Bahrain polls: Alleged anti-Shia plot casts shadow
(AFP)

22 November 2006

MANAMA - Claims of a plot to marginalize Bahrain’s Shia majority have cast a shadow on the runup to Saturday’s legislative polls in the Gulf state despite a gag order on the “Bandargate” affair.

A controversial report by purported British spy Salah Al Bandar in which he claimed to have uncovered the conspiracy will have “a definite impact” on Bahrainis for years to come, said Sheikh Ali Salman, who heads the main Shia opposition political group.

Bandar, a Sudanese-born former government consultant, alleged he exposed a secret organization operating within the Sunni-led government to “deprive an essential part of the population of this country of their rights”—an allusion to Shias.

Bahrain Shiite majority in pre-poll show of strength by Ali Khalil
Tue Nov 21, 9:44 AM ET

Thousands of Bahraini Shiites hailed the majority community's sometimes bloody campaign for democracy in the Sunni-ruled Gulf kingdom as they put on a rare show of strength ahead of Saturday's polls.

Leaders of the main Shiite party contesting the elections tempered the message of defiance with calls for national unity and conciliation with the Sunni elite.

But rank and file supporters of the Islamic National Accord Association (Al-Wifaq) punched their fists in the air as they paid tribute to the movement's martyrs at a mass rally Monday evening.

Bahrain bans strikes a month after allowing them
21 Nov 2006 11:26:13 GMT
Source: Reuters
Printable view | Email this article | RSS [-] Text [+]

MANAMA, Nov 21 (Reuters) - Bahrain has banned strikes and worker demonstrations in most business sectors, a month after labour law reforms banning the sacking of strikers encouraged a wave of trade union activity in the Gulf island state.

The United States has urged countries hoping to qualify for a bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) to amend labour laws to comply with international standards that protect worker rights, including the right to associate and bargain for higher pay.

Bahrain Shiite majority in pre-poll show of strength
By Ali Khalil
AFP
Published November 21, 2006

Thousands of Bahraini Shiites hailed the majority community's sometimes bloody campaign for democracy in the Sunni-ruled Gulf kingdom as they put on a rare show of strength ahead of Saturday's polls.

Leaders of the main Shiite party contesting the elections tempered the message of defiance with calls for national unity and conciliation with the Sunni elite.

But rank and file supporters of the Islamic National Accord Association (Al Wifaq) punched their fists in the air as they paid tribute to the movement's martyrs at a mass rally Monday evening.

Candidates express fears over polls transparency
Published: 21 November 2006

CANDIDATES yesterday expressed fears about transparency at Bahrain's 10 general polling stations, at which people will be able to vote irrespective of which constituency they belong to.

Candidates told election officials that they and their representatives would not be able to go to all 10 general polling stations, as well as to those in their respective constituencies.

High Elections Committee executive director Wael Buallay said that since the deadline had passed, the candidates could not register more representatives, but said that the law probably wouldn't have allowed them to have 10 anyway.

Religious fatwas used to explain poll participation

11/21/2006 12:09 AM | By Habib Toumi, Bureau Chief

Manama: Four years ago Salafi leader Shaikh Adel Al Mouawda needed to explain the reasons for his Al Asala Society to contest the elections.

"Entering the parliament is not a religious act. But it becomes a must when there is a need to counter probable harm," he said.

Little did the agenda-setting shaikh know that he was creating a precedent that would be taken up this year by Shiite leaders to explain to their followers the reasons for their controversial decision to end their boycott of the polls and to fully endorse popular participation.

Time 'is right for women winners'
By Geoffrey bew
Published: 20 November 2006

FEMALE candidates have a good chance of winning seats in Bahrain's parliamentary elections, an envoy declared yesterday.

French Ambassador to Bahrain Malika Berak believes the country is ready to elect women when voters go to the polls on Saturday.

"I feel that yes, the chance is big," she told the GDN.

"It is time. They (Bahrainis) don't have to wait any longer."

Ms Berak was speaking after a Press conference at her residence in Manama to announce details of the second Women's Voices Forum.

The three-day event, which starts on Sunday at the Bahrain National Museum, will feature round-table discussions with prominent women from Bahrain

Bahrain: The Authorities continue targeting freedom of expression and commence assault on activists during popular interaction with "Bandargate"
Committee of Solidarity with Activists and Detainees of Conscience in Bahrain

Late yesterday (Saturday), the Bahraini Public Prosecution ordered both Dr. Mohamed Said (dentist-35 years), Hussein Abdul-Aziz to remain in custody pending investigations for a period of 15 days, on two charges. The first is "possession and acquisition of publications without legitimate cause, including favouritism and promotion of the changing systems of the State through illegal means and without a legitimate reason. The second charge is "possession and acquisition of publications, without legitimate reason, containing false news and exciting rumors, and would cause disruption of public security, and damage public interest.

Election panel warns against spreading rumours

The government will crack down on people who question the fairness of elections without proof, an official said, a week before parliamentary and municipal polls. “Those who spread rumours about the integrity of the election or candidates without proof will face prosecution and imprisonment of up to six months or a fine of up to BD500,” an election spokeswoman said. “We challenge any candidate who believes in these allegations to provide proof, to present any name of those so-called ‘roving voters’,” Ahmed said. “The elections enjoy all safeguards to guarantee their fairness ... Doubtful rumours seek to undermine the election process and give it a false negative image,” she said.

Illegal recruiter strikes third time
Another minor maid runs away from sponsor after two weeks’ work
Ayla Marrise G Ginete
Contributor

Alleged illegal recruiter Zoraida Salem has left a distinct trail leading back to her modus operandi of recruiting minors into the housemaid trade.
A third member of her batch girls has run away from her sponsors after just two weeks working for her sponsor.
Twenty one year old Jocelyn Bocanegre, claims to have been a victim of abuse and maltreatment on a daily basis.
“I cannot believe that I am here now; if it weren’t for this taxi driver who pitied me and drove me to the nearest bus station then I would not be here. He was kind enough to driver me there after which I helped by another local man, by paying for my fare,” she said.

Fair polling petition being sent to King
By Geoffrey bew
Published: 20 November 2006

Hundred parliamentary and municipal election candidates have signed a petition demanding fairer polls.

The document is to be sent to His Majesty King Hamad tomorrow, requesting that 10 general polling stations outside normal constituencies be scrapped.

Thirty-five people signed the petition at its launch at the Bahrain Medical Society, Juffair, last Wednesday, before it was circulated among other candidates.

Signatories say that only the 40 constituency polling centres should be open, because more centres will make it difficult to monitor the elections.

New hunger strike over delay in deportations
By BEGENA GEORGE
Published: 20 November 2006

A group of detainees waiting to be deported after serving prison sentences are staging a second hunger strike from today.

Twenty Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi detainees staged a brief hunger strike at the Hidd detention centre on November 12, to protest over delays in sending them home.

They vowed on Saturday to begin a second strike from 2pm yesterday, if promises to send them home quickly were not met.

The prisoners say they waited till yesterday for a response and when they had not heard from any officials about their issue being resolved they decided to resume the strike, but put it off until today.

Bahrain destination for Filipinos
Published: 20 November 2006

BAHRAIN is now in the top 10 worldwide destinations favoured by Filipinos seeking jobs overseas, it was revealed yesterday.

Thirteenth last year, Bahrain is now at number 10 in the list compiled annually by the Philippines' Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) in Manila.

The updated 2006 Fast Stats list released by the POEA showed that the most number of Filipino workers, newly hired for various jobs overseas, went to the Middle East between the months of January and October.

Out of 263,887 that went abroad within those 10 months, 178,685 are now working in jobs in the Middle East region.

Law 'may hit remittances'
By EUNICE del ROSARIO
Published: 20 November 2006

BAHRAIN recruiting agencies are backing a new study predicting losses of up to $250 million (BD94.5m) in annual remittances to the Philippines if it approves a new proposal to double Filipina housemaids' pay to $400 (BD151).

A wage rise would mean that foreign employers would turn to other expat maids willing to work for less, leaving many Filipina domestic helpers unemployed, according to a study compiled by the Philippines-based Federated Association of Manpower Exporters (Fame).

It is estimated that eight million Filipinos work overseas, out of which officials estimate that 80,000 work as maids in various countries.

Election 2006
Central Governorate - Constituency 9
Constituency 9 of the Central Governorate is an area without the normal complaints of the poor and unemployed. The areas of A’ Ali are swank, with only villas. However, the area of East Riffa, comprising a major chunk of the constituency lie in a middle income belt. This is the battleground of some of the famed hats, including Khalifa al Dhahrani (former chairman of the Chamber of Deputies) and Ibraheem Abdulraheem Fakhroo (former chairman of the Riffa Municipal Council), writes Alexander Arackal. For the Chamber of Deputies it is a five-cornered contest, while the battle for the Municipal Council seat is four-cornered.

Election 2006 Bahrain Tribune poll survey
The Bahrain Tribune poll survey revealed several interesting factors in the preference pattern between men and women in the selection of candidates. While 69 per cent of the women respondents said the educational background of a candidate mattered most in selecting their representtive, 50 per cent of the male respondents pitched in for a candidate’s affiliation to political society as the most important factor, which found favour only with 19 per cent of the women.
When it came to popularity of the candidate among the masses, both men and women seemed to agree that it wasn’t that important an issue, with 14 per cent of men rating it high and 12 per cent of the women respondents stating they would give priority to popularity.

Second minor runs to shelter
17-year-old Filipina maid illtreated for four and half months since she began work
Ayla Marisse G Ginete
Contributor

A second underaged Filipina maid sought refuge at the Overseas Workers Welfare Association (OWWA) shelter two days ago.
Safiya arrived at the shelter, heavily bruised all over her body, black and blue in several places, showing the signs of extreme abuse.
The girl arrived at the shelter scared, penniless, and without any belonging.
Less than a month ago, 15-year-old Rosanna Baro had arrived at the shelter for assistance.
Incidentally, 17-year-old Safiya is also a victim of illegal recruitment from the Philippines, and allegedly belonged to the same batch of maids recruited by a Filipino woman by the name of Zuraida Salem.

Shelter for the needy
But some runaways take advantage
Ayla Marisse G Ginete
Contributor

The Overseas Workers’ Welfare Association has never turned away our ‘kababayans’ who needed assistance, no matter how many times they left and returned to the shelter, Philippine Ambassador Eduardo Pablo Maglaya says.
The shelter has implemented a policy of openness and lets in any Filipino in distress, the ambassador reiterated, referring to reports in newspapers about shelter runaways in the past few days. “There is no maximum limit for the inmates to stay in the shelter. As long as their cases are pending in our offices, the inmates stay at the shelter. Not unless they choose to leave the shelter, signing a waiver that the shelter is no more responsible for their well-being,” he said.

Spotlight on media role
Published: 19 November 2006

A SEMINAR on media monitoring during municipality and parliamentary elections will be held tomorrow at the Bahrain Medical Society, Juffair.

The event, which begins at 7pm, is open to media representatives, journalists, political societies, candidates for parliament and municipal councils, in addition to human rights activists and the general public.

The project on media monitoring is organised by the Bahraini Society for Public Freedom and Democracy Support in co-operation with the Arabian Group for Media Monitoring During Elections and the International Media Support, based in Denmark.

Reaching out to workers
Published: 19 November 2006

MORE than 2000 workers from 32 different labour camps across Bahrain took part in the 10th Annual Workers Day, held by the Indian Ladies Association (ILA).

Titled Dil Se (From the Heart), it was part of a string of activities held this year as part of the ILA's Golden Jubilee celebrations, under the theme Building Bridges of Friendship.

It was organised for workers of all nationalities at the Indian Club, in Manama and featured a raffle draw where prizes such as air tickets, watches, electronic home appliances, and calling cards were given away.

Free us now!
By BEGENA GEORGE
Published: 19 November 2006

A GROUP of detainees waiting to be deported after serving prison sentences are threatening to stage their second hunger strike in a week today.

Twenty Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi detainees staged a brief hunger strike at the Hidd detention centre last Sunday, to protest over delays in sending them home.

They vowed yesterday to begin a second strike from 2pm today, if promises to get them home quickly are not met.

They halted the strike last week after talks with officials, but were defiant yesterday, despite being urged by community workers to be patient.

Election leaflets pair arrested
Published: 19 November 2006

MANAMA: Two Bahrainis have been arrested on charges of inciting people to boycott elections and demanding a change in the system of government, Chief Public Prosecutor Ahmed Bucheeri revealed last night.

They were caught red-handed with 1,500 leaflets they were planning to distribute in a number of mosques after Friday prayers.

One of them admitted getting the propaganda material on the Internet, while the other got it printed.

Both were charged with possessing illegal prints calling for changing the government system without any legitimate reason, and possessing illegal prints including false information likely to harm public interest and disrupt law and order.

Two Activists Charged with Inciting People to Boycott Upcoming Elections and Demanding a Change in the System of Government
Possibility of a New Period of Crackdown on Activists as Predicted by the “Bandargate” report

Bahrain Center for Human Rights
November 19, 2006
Ref: 06111900

300 protesters in Bahrain demand investigation into alleged conspiracy to rig elections

The Associated Press
About 300 people demonstrated in this capital city on Friday, demanding that an investigation be launched into allegations of a conspiracy to rig the upcoming parliamentary elections.

Deputy Parliament Speaker Abdul Hadi Marhoon said he participated in the peaceful rally that lasted about an hour "in defense of rights enshrined by the Bahraini constitution." He also called for "greater freedom of expression."

Bahrain's opposition leaders have asked for an investigation into a report distributed last September by a former government consultant, Salah al-Bandar, that made allegations against top government officials, tying them to plans to alter the Nov. 25 elections and deprive Shiites of their rights.

Sectarian split at its peak in Bahrain as elections near
Web posted at: 11/18/2006 2:35:31
Source ::: REUTERS
MANAMA • In an election campaign tent on a patch of dusty wasteland, Shi’ite Bahraini Nader Al Hamad points to the run-down homes nearby; each family has experienced exile, prison, death or unemployment for being Shi’ite, he says.

Hamad is running the election campaign of his wife, Ameena Abbas, a candidate in the Gulf island’s November 25 municipal and parliamentary elections. Shi’ites, the majority in the Sunni-ruled kingdom, boycotted the previous poll in 2002.

Saturday, 18, November, 2006 (27, Shawwal, 1427)

Bahraini Protesters Demand Probe Into Vote-Rigging Plot
Arab News —

MANAMA, 18 November 2006 — Hundreds of opposition activists demonstrated in Manama yesterday to demand a probe into an alleged plot to rig upcoming elections and to change the country’s demographic makeup by granting citizenship to foreigners.

Two activists of Haq, the mainly Shiite opposition group which called the protest, were arrested on the eve of the rally, the group said.

The protesters, gathered outside a mosque, chanted slogans demanding the resignation of the government and raised banners calling on authorities to come clean on the so-called “Bandargate” affair.

Bahraini protesters allege anti-Shiite plot, two activists held Fri Nov 17, 2:07 PM ET

Some 200 people rallied in Manama to demand a probe into an alleged plot by some figures in Bahrain's Sunni-led government to rig upcoming elections and marginalize the Shiite majority.

Two activists of Haq, the mainly Shiite opposition group which called the protest, were arrested on the eve of the rally, the group said.

The protesters, gathered outside a mosque, chanted slogans demanding the resignation of the government and raised banners calling on authorities to come clean on the so-called "Bandargate" affair, an AFP correspondent reported.

Protesters stage sit-in
Published: 18th November 2006

HUNDREDS of protesters called for authorities to lift a ban against media coverage of the Salah Al Bandar case, at a gathering held at the square near the Ras Al Ruman Grand Mosque yesterday, reports REBECCA TORR. For an hour and a half the group held placards and chanted for authorities to open investigations into the Bandargate report. Protesters included various parliamentary candidates, members of the Press, human rights and political activists, as well as Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Network representative Moataz Al Fujari and Arab Working Group for Monitoring Media Coverage of the Elections representative Hameed Khalid. The rally was organised by a group of 20 Bahraini religious scholars, women, human rights and political activists in protest over the government's handling of the Salah Al Bandar case. Protesters also called for authorities to release Bahraini human rights activists Dr Mohammed Saeed Mattar and Hussein Al Hebshi, who were believed to have been detained by the Criminal Investigation Directorate in Adliya on Thursday evening.

Drive to combat organ trafficking
By REBECCA TORR
Published: 18th November 2006

A CAMPAIGN is being launched to stop transplant patients in Bahrain travelling abroad to buy human organs.

Bahrain is being urged to help combat the international trade in organs - and to come up with a legitimate alternative for patients here.

The now-dissolved Bahrain Centre for Human Rights (BCHR) has teamed up with the Coalition for Organ-Failure Solutions (COFS) to address the situation of transplants in Bahrain and the Gulf region.

BCHR vice-president Nabeel Rajab said kidneys were being sold by poor families in Asian countries for as little as a few hundred dollars to $2,000 (BD756).

Reasons Yet to be Disclosed; BCHR Fears for his Safety

Bahrain Centre for Human Rights
17 November 2006
Ref: 06111600

Activist Detained at Criminal Interrogations
Created 17 Nov 2006 - 00:20
Activist Detained at Criminal Interrogations
Reasons Yet to be Disclosed, BCHR Fears for his Safety
Bahrain Centre for Human Rights
Ref: 06111600

The BCHR has learnt that Human Rights Activist Dr. Mohammed Saeed Mattar, called his family tonight to inform them that he was being detained at the Criminal Investigations, the call was brief and he was not permitted sufficient time to disclose the reasons behind his detention. Dr. Saeed was one of the individuals who signed the petition addressed to the King about the report of the Gulf Democracy Development Center, known locally by "Bandargate" demanding for investigation. His family had been worried for they had been unable to reach him prior to the call.

A Bahraini opposition movement Haq (Right) called on the United Nations Wednesday to investigate allegations that a secret government grouping has been conspiring to fuel sectarian tensions and rig the results of upcoming parliamentary and municipal elections.

In a letter addressed to UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan and delivered to Sayed Aqa, the UN Development Programme's (UNDP) Bahrain coordinator, Haq called for the forming of an international fact- finding committee to scrutinize the claims made in an August report by the Gulf Centre for Democratic Development (GCDD).

The 240-page report, dubbed BandarGate after its co-author Salah al-Bandar - a Briton of Sudanese origin who was deported in September to Britain after its publication - alleged that a ring masterminded by a government minister was secretly planning to manipulate the demographic makeup of the country, through the selective granting of citizenship.

Election 2006 Capital Governorate - Constituency 5
This constituency comprises Al Fatheh, Juffair, Ghuraifa, Mina Salman and the Nabih Saleh Island. Juffair area boasts of some of the most luxurious apartments in the Kingdom but the village is a picture in contrast being home to a lot of dilapidated houses. Residents also complain of acute water shortage in the area. Ghuraifa and Juffair also have a number of schools, and the resultant traffic gridlocks are a common sight every school day, says Bonny Mascarenhas. A multi-cornered battle is on the cards for the Parliament seat while for the Municipal Council seat, it would be a triangular fight.

Election 2006 Central Governorate - Constituency 2
Central Governorate - Constituency 2
Constituency 2 of Central governorate has 14 blocks, spread over the two townships of Salmabad and A’ Ali. Some of the blocks bordering Salmabad are just open desert and industrial estates where the only people staying are Bangladeshi and Indian labourers, writes Alexander M Arackal. Both the Chamber of Deputies and the Municipal Council seats would witness four-cornered contests.

The candidates speak...
Poverty alleviation must for survival of democracy: Khamis
How do you rate your chances of winning and why?

'Just Bahraini' push takes off
By TARIQ KHONJI
Published: 16th November 2006

A TOTAL of 89,000 more buttons have been ordered for an anti-sectarianism campaign launched by a Bahraini blogger.

This is in addition to 11,000 pins that have already been made and distributed for Mahmood Al Yousif's 'Just Bahraini' campaign.

The campaign is being financed by donations from the public, with BD5,689 collected so far.

Mr Al Yousif, who runs the popular blog mahmood.tv, placed the orders even though he has yet to collect the full BD8,500 needed to make all 100,000 pins.

"We have received BD5,689 so far with BD2,811 to go," he said.

Election 2006
Muharraq Governorate - Constituency 1
Constituency one under Muharraq governorate essentially comprises Busaiteen. What makes this area different from other constituencies in the governorate is that it has the smallest percentage of unemployment. But housing is a major issue despite availability of land. It is divided into two parts, the old and new Busaiteen. The new area, known as the Royal Air Force (RAF) is an elite area while the old area is neglected, says Fadhel Hasan.
In the fray for the Chamber of Deputies seat are four candidates with the main contest between the sitting MP Adel Al Moawdah and Yehya Al Mujademi. The triangular fight for Municipal Council seat, however, is expected to be a keen tussle.

Published: 15 November 2006

BAHRAIN has been criticised in a report for failing to introduce a written personal status law to protect women, despite over 20 years of debate over the issue.

The paper, which was presented at the AWO conference yesterday, said that the first organised effort to introduce the law was launched in 1982.

Bahrain University continuous legal education programme director Dr Mohammed Al Masri said that this unofficial committee was followed by numerous efforts by various society figures to help launch such a law.

"These included efforts by both Sunni and Shi'ite clergymen and resulted in the Justice Ministry setting up its own committee, consisting of lawyers and Sharia judges," said Dr Al Masri.

By MOHAMMED AL A'ALI
Published: 15 November 2006

THIRTY-FIVE parliamentary and municipal elections candidates yesterday signed a petition, demanding fairer elections.

The petition, signed at the Bahrain Medical Society, Juffair, is expected to include up to 200 signatures by tonight when it is circulated among other candidates.

It will be sent to His Majesty King Hamad tomorrow, demanding that the 10 current general polling stations at various parts of the country be closed.

They say that only the main polling centres in each governorate should be open because more centres would make it difficult to monitor the elections.

Arab bloggers challenge cultural, political restrictions
By Faiza Saleh Ambah - The Washington Post

Tuesday, November 14, 2006

Jiddah, Saudi Arabia — When he was a college student in Washington state, Saudi Arabia’s most popular blogger, Fouad al-Farhan, donned a T-shirt emblazoned with “Animal Rights Equals Human Rights” and slept on the campus lawn during a hunger strike protesting the slaughter of foxes.

That type of freedom during six years in the United States ga