Brussels, 01/12/2014 (Agence Europe) - On Sunday 30 November, the European Union described the holding of the second round of parliamentary and municipal elections in Bahrain on 29 November as a “positive achievement”. It also highlighted the significant participation of Bahrainis in these elections. According to the authorities, voter turnout was 52.6% but the Shi'ite opposition contests this figure and puts it at around 30%.
In a press release, the spokesperson for the High Representative stated, “These first full parliamentary elections since the dramatic events of 2011 are an important step for the advancement of the necessary reforms in Bahrain, including those needed to sustainably respond to the legitimate grievances of all segments of Bahraini society”. Mass protests have continued in the country since 14 February 2011, calling for more democracy, respect for human rights and socio-economic reforms. The spokesperson, however, considered that it is all the more unfortunate that a number of political societies decided not to take part in these elections. The opposition, notably those from the Shi'ite community, boycotted the elections.
The spokesperson said that three years after the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry report (EUROPE 10502), “Bahraini political actors are now presented with an opportunity to engage in renewed genuine efforts to achieve national dialogue and reconciliation, in a spirit of shared responsibility in the interest of all Bahrainis”.
The spokesperson also explained that the EU hoped that the recent statements indicating that all the different sides were prepared to open a new chapter in Bahrain's political evolution would, “bear fruit”. She added that, “In this context, all parties should show the leadership and willingness to compromise that is needed to resolve remaining issues”. According to the results published on 30 November, 27 out of 40 seats were won by Sunni parties and 13 by Shi'ite parties, including four women. (CG)