16/01/2017 (Agence Europe) – On Sunday 15 January, the EU underlined its strong opposition to the use of the death penalty in all circumstances, following the execution of three Shi'ite Muslims convicted for a bomb attack against the police which killed three policemen and left around a dozen wounded (see EUROPE 11032). "This case is a serious drawback given that Bahrain had suspended executions for the past seven years, and concerns have been expressed about possible violations of the right to a fair process for the three convicted", the spokesperson for the European External Action Service said in a press release, adding that the EU rejects violence as a political tool and fully supports the stability and development of Bahrain. However, "this can only be achieved through a sustainable and inclusive national reconciliation process", the spokesperson said. Shi'ites have demonstrated to criticise these executions. (CG)