Brussels, 05/01/2015 (Agence Europe) - On 30 December, the spokesperson for High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini stated that the arrest of Sheikh Ali Salman, the head of the Shi'ite opposition, on 28 December marked a further step in the confrontation between a part of the opposition and the authorities of the Kingdom of Bahrain, carrying the risk of “jeopardising an already difficult political and security situation”.
“The requisite standards of due process have to be ensured, including the presence of Sheikh Ali Salman's legal counsel at all stages, transparency regarding his whereabouts, the objective application of guidelines for release on bail and, should Sheikh Ali Salman be brought to trial, fair and transparent court proceedings”, said Mogherini's spokesperson.
“Only a process of national reconciliation, without preconditions, can ensure stability and prosperity for Bahrain's citizens”, Mogherini's spokesperson stated. (CG)