Appeals Court hearing set for October 14

Manama, Sept. 15 (BNA): Advocate General Haroon Al-Zayani has confirmed that the appeal hearing of the secretary general of one of Bahrain’s political societies has begun today, following a conviction of inciting non-compliance with the law, publicly inciting hatred – an act which had disturbed public peace – and insulting a statutory body. The defendant was convicted of the charges following investigations into recordings of public speeches and sermons that promoted extremist views, incited violence and encouraged the use of force against the Kingdom’s authorities, referring to such acts as a religious duty. In line with Bahrain’s Penal Code, these acts constitute a clear contravention of the law. In accordance with the law, the defendant was subsequently questioned on the content of these recordings in the presence of four lawyers. Evidence submitted to the courts included examples of repeatedly making public threats about the possibility of carrying out military-style tactics in the Kingdom, in a similar manner to other factions and groups in the region, and the possibility of resorting to this option at any time. Additional evidence included instances where the defendant called upon global powers to intervene in the Kingdom’s internal affairs and support the overthrow of the government, on the grounds that it would serve their interests. Other evidence included statements made by the defendant that called for the reinstatement of the disbanded Islamic Council of Scholars, as well as incitement against naturalised Bahraini citizens, accusing them of disloyalty and terrorist acts. Additionally, investigations found that the defendant publicly announced that the opposition had been offered similar military assistance to that given to the Syrian opposition. Evidence was also presented which proved the defendant had held meetings overseas with groups that offered him access to arms, and that supported the call for violent unrest in Bahrain. The defendant acknowledged the acts and content of these statements and admitted delivering the public speeches and sermons that were highlighted by the investigation. In light of this, the Public Prosecution presented its case at the Higher Criminal Court, where the trial took place over six consecutive sessions. The defendant was found guilty of publicly inciting hatred, an act which disturbed public peace, inciting non-compliance with the law and insulting public institutions and was sentenced to four years. The defendant was acquitted of all other charges. The Advocate General confirmed that the defendant appealed the verdict handed down by the Higher Criminal Court. He further added that the Public Prosecution has appealed the court’s decision to acquit the defendant of the charge of promoting political change using illegal forceful means and threats. In addition, the Public Prosecution has appealed against the length of the sentences in relation to the guilty verdicts, as the Public Prosecution does not feel the sentences reflect the seriousness of the offences. The defendant attended the hearing and his legal team were present throughout. The Public Prosecution’s representative requested that the defendant be convicted of the acquitted charge of promoting political change using illegal forceful means. The Appeals Court set the next appeal hearing to 14 October 2015. The Advocate General confirmed that the defendant continues to be afforded full legal rights, and provided with the opportunity to meet with his family and legal team throughout the appeals process.