Ali Salman to learn his fate on June 16

Manama

 A much-awaited court ruling will be delivered on June 16 in the trial of the General Secretary of Al Wefaq Islamic Society Shaikh Ali Salman, who is accused of promoting political change using illegal forceful means and threats, spreading hatred among a segment of society, insulting the interior ministry and encouraging non-compliance with law. 

He was charged based on several speeches he had publicly delivered. Closing arguments were heard in yesterday's hearing, with the Public Prosecution throwing light on Shaikh Salman's hate-inciting speeches.

The Public Prosecution indicated the accused had already admitted to delivering the speeches.

"The accused claimed the country doesn't pay attention to its people, ignoring the amount of development Bahrain has recorded. He aimed to topple the regime with force, violating the law, and insulting the security forces using colorful words packed with lies," said the Public Prosecution during the closing arguments hearing.

 "We don't want him to be punished for his hidden intentions, but we want a ruling that penalizes him for what he said," the prosecutor added.

 The Public Prosecution has also denied that the case against him is politically-motivated. "The Ministry of Interior’s initial abstention and later decision to sue him doesn't mean this case is politically-driven. The case was established based on solid evidences, that are sufficient to put him on trial."

 Following the conclusion of the hearing, the Public Prosecution issued a statement quoting Bahrain Advocate General Wael Bu Allay, " During the trial session, the Public Prosecution reaffirmed the seriousness of the charges levelled against the accused and requested the court issue the maximum penalty available."