Manama, June 17 (BNA): The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reaffirmed that the sentence handed down to Ali Salman on June 16 relates to past criminal offences including incitement of hatred and inciting violence.
“Ali Salman was charged on December 28, 2014 following investigations into recordings of public speeches that included hate speech and encouraged the use of force against Bahrain’s authorities,” the ministry said.

“The sentence follows a comprehensive, independent and transparent trial and is wholly unrelated to any political views Ali Salman may hold. The ministry reaffirms that the defendant has the right to appeal the verdict at a higher court in accordance with due process.”

The ministry emphasised that peaceful freedom of expression and the right to peaceful protest are protected by Bahrain’s constitution.
“The government is fully committed to a vibrant, pluralistic society in which political expression is protected and encouraged.The government also has a duty to protect citizens, residents, and visitors alike from hate speech and incitement to violence,” the ministry said.
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BNA 2041 GMT 2015/06/17