The National Democratic Opposition Parties reiterate their call for an inclusive political solution for the crisis in Bahrain. A resolution for the 3 year long crisis is most necessary today in light of the serious developments in the region and which warn of unprecedented negative consequences. The country needs to be protected internally through solid unity and by putting an end to the deteriorating political, economic, security social situations.
Seasonal statements made by senior officials about change and reform are no more than a failed attempt to polish the bitter image of the situation.
Any call to participate in elections must respect the will of the voters, whereas in Bahrain, the Authority is strangling the voice of the people. The elected municipal council of the Capital was recently forcibly dissolved, and the current MPs bowed to the Government’s desire by complicating parliament questioning mechanism of cabinet ministers.
Any upcoming elections will be a waste of time and disregard to the will of the people as long as the crisis is not resolved by a clear roadmap to a political settlement.
Elections must be free and fair to produce a real legislative authority that stands on a fair electoral system and an executive authority that represents the people and fights corruption. Bahrain needs an impartial and independent judicial system. The Authority is yet to live up to its pledges by implementing the recommendations of the UPR and the BICI report.
As long as the current situation remains and as long as no solution lights in the horizon, the opposition parties will not participate in the upcoming elections without a roadmap to political settlement.
Manama- 7th July 2014
National Democratic Opposition Parties
Al-Wefaq National Islamic Society (AlWefaq)
National Democratic Action Society (Waad)
The National Progressive Tribune Society (Taqadomi)
National Democratic Gathering Society (AlQawmi)
Ekhaa National Society (Ekhaa)
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