The uprising and protests on the island are said to be inspired by the revolutions in Tunisia and Egypt. However, tensions have run high in Bahrain for many years. The majority Shi'ite population has long complained of discrimination by the ruling al Khalifa family. In an attempt to appease the protesters, King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, offered to give 1,000 dinars, roughly two and half thousand US dollars, to each family, as well the sacking of five cabinet ministers and the reduction of government housing loans by 25%.
Demonstrators in Melbourne have expressed concern about the violence being perpetrated against the anti-government protesters in Bahrain. They are calling on the Australian government to condemn the violence.
End item/ 129
