Bahrain: Decision on Mahdi Abu Dheeb’s release deferred

This has been done in order to include medical reports, as well as finding out more regarding the allegations of torture from the public Prosecution and the implementation of the Court decisions.

Mahdi was arrested after a crackdown by authorities following pro-democracy demonstrations.

According to ablog source, two US Embassy representatives have attended the trial. The usual observer from the UK embassy was unfortunately on sick leave and did not attend this latest morning court hearing. From the Dutch embassy in Kuwait, EI has learned that they are very well aware about the court case against Mahdi Abu Dheeb and are in contact with colleagues from the UK and German Embassies.

Ill treatment

After 11 months of detention, Mahdi was allowed to speak during the Court hearing for the first time. He described to the Court in detail the ill treatment he was subjected to during his arrest and detention. Mahdi’s health condition was so bad that he could not stand up to make his statement in front of the court.

This information is still subject to confirmation and EI will keep you informed once more details are sourced from the BTA colleagues.

In the meantime, EI has asked the International Committee of the Red Cross to liaise with the Red Crescent to visit the BTA President in detention.

Now is the time to speak up in support of Mahdi Abu Dheeb. Please urge your government to take action and send diplomatic observers to the trial.

Please click here to download and send a sample letter!

[Fri, 30 Mar 2012 12:28:49 +0000] | DIGG THIS