Manama: Activists in Bahrain say police have fired tear gas at anti-government protesters who took to the streets after an annual address by the Gulf nation’s king.
The sporadic clashes took place shortly after King Hamad Bin Eisa Al Khalifa called for unity on Sunday in a speech for the kingdom’s national day. They highlight the country’s sharp divides after more than 22 months of near nonstop unrest between the government and the country’s opposition, who seek a greater political voice.
Acting head of the Bahrain Centre for Human Rights Yousuf Al Muhafedha says hundreds of protesters were dispersed by riot police firing tear gas in a neighbourhood near the capital Manama. Elsewhere, masked youths blocked roads with burning tires.
No casualties were reported.
On Friday, thousands demonstrated in Manama chanting slogans, calling for reform.
Protest groups are calling for large-scale marches later this week.
