Al Wefaq distances itself from violent protests in Bahrain

Manama: A Wefaq Society insider on Saturday attributed the statement by the new secretary-general Shaikh Ali Salman, distancing the political group from the recent wave of street protests, to a desire not to assume responsibility for violence and to be seen as part of a national solution.

"Shaikh Ali is clearly telling everyone that Al Wefaq does not condone violence and that it should not be blamed for whatever violent course of action taken by protestors," the Wefaq source told Gulf News.

In his Friday sermon, Shaikh Ali Salman said "Al Wefaq is responsible only for the demonstrations, rallies and public activities that it organises or in which it takes part."

"We are also ready to assume responsibility for whatever activity undertaken by the Supreme Scholars Council. Otherwise, Al Wefaq must not be dragged into the implications and consequences of activities, rallies or sit-ins organised by others," he said.

Al Wefaq, Bahrain's leading opposition society which boycotted the legislative elections in 2002 to ask for more constitutional reforms, had spearheaded in the last few years much of the street action.

"Al Wefaq now wants to be seen as part of the solution, not part of the problem," the source said.

In his weekly sermon, Shaikh Ali Salman said Al Wefaq was part of the negotiations with the authorities on the detention of Shaikh Khalid (Mohammad) Sanad at the airport upon his return from Qom, Iran.

UNCHALLENGED
Shaikh Ali's status reinforced

Shaikh Ali Salman has become the first secretary-general of the re-structured Al Wefaq after his application was not challenged by any other candidate.

The appointment reinforces Shaikh Ali's growing status within the society which was shaken by a series of resignations by its hawkish members who were protesting registration under the law of political associations.

The secretary-general who has chosen Shaikh Hussain Al Daihi, 39, as his deputy, will be assisted by a shura (consultation) council to be elected on January 19.

Al Wefaq media officer Faheem Abdullah yesterday told Gulf News that 64 people, including six women, would be vying for the 30 council membership posts.