Bahrain: Mahdi Abu Dheeb denied release on bail yet again

The Bahraini Supreme Court of Appeal has once more turned down Bahrain Teacher Association’s president Mahdi Abu Dheeb’s request for temporary release because of health reasons.

In September, a military court, in what is effectively a campaign of repression against the pro-democracy movement, sentenced Mahdi Abu Dheeb to ten years’ imprisonment for his involvement in peaceful protests in the capital, Manama, last March.

Consideration adjourned

The Court, in a second appeal session held on 19 February, has adjourned consideration of the cases of Mahdi Abu Dheeb and Jalila Al Salman, BTA Vice President, to 2 April, prolonging Mahdi’s detention in deplorable conditions. Mahdi Abu Dheeb has been on hunger strike for 11 days. His health has been deteriorating, and his condition – indeed, his life – is now a matter of grave concern.

EI welcomes the court’s decision to permit both defendants to be examined by an independent medical panel, drop three of the charges related to freedom of expression, and accept the Independent Commission of Enquiry report as evidence.

We will continue to monitor the situation and the ongoing court cases closely.

Respect civil liberties

EI also expresses its deep appreciation for the involvement of its member organisations, especially for contacting their respective Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Embassies to attend the trials and ensure that civil liberties are respected in Bahrain.