Bahrain Mirror: Freedom House, an independent watchdog organization that advocates for democracy and human rights, strongly condemned Bahraini authorities' decision to formally question prominent human rights activist Sheikh Maytham Al Salman on Sunday (August 14, 2016).

"Authorities in Bahrain are using baseless interrogations to intimidate Maytham Al Salman and other human rights defenders, who are working to promote human rights, tolerance, and interfaith dialogue," said Dokhi Fassihian, senior program manager for Middle East and North Africa programs. "These divisive tactics undermine the country's social fabric and chances of reconciliation," Fassihian added.

"The government should work with all of its citizens, especially its vibrant human rights community, to implement the recommendations of the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry," the statement further read.

The human rights watchdog also noted that "Bahraini human rights defenders risk intimidation and imprisonment on politically-motivated grounds."

Arabic Version