Statement by the Spokesperson on the sentencing of Ali Salman

The sentence against Ali Salman, Secretary-General of Al Wefaq political society, was increased from 4 to 9 years imprisonment by a Bahraini Court of Appeal on 30 May 2016. Contrary to the first instance ruling, the Court of Appeal retained the charge of "seeking to overthrow by force the monarchy and change the political system”.

This verdict risks undermining chances of lasting and inclusive national reconciliation in Bahrain. It is our hope that the sentence can be reconsidered upon appeal by the defendant, in a fair and transparent manner, in full respect of Bahrain's international obligations. 

The EU will continue to support Bahrain in promoting further reforms aimed at strengthening human rights and the rule of law in a context free of violence and with freedom of expression