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AhlulBayt News Agency - Members of Muslim community, Human right activists and people of conscious in Canada's most populous city Toronto, assembled outside US consulate on Sunday January 3, 2016, to condemn and mourn Sheikh Baqir al-Nimr’s illegitimate execution by the Saudi regime.
The rally began with Quran recitation followed by chants condemning the Saudi monarchy, their US master and Canadian government for exporting arms to the Saudi government.
The spoken word by the youths highlighted the brave and courageous, non-violent stand of Sheikh Nimr against corruption of Saudi rulers and human rights violation.
The speech by the religious scholar questioned the false accusation of terrorism against Sheikh Nimr, despite the fact that Sheikh Nimr always supported the roar of the words against authorities rather than weapons.
“We condemned and invite all people of conscience to join hands on the tragic loss of Ayatollah Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr, a world–renowned grand Muslim cleric, advocated for equality and democratic elections within Saudi Arabia,” the Muslim Society of Ottawa said in a release. The group also helped organize the rally in Toronto with Canadians Against Injustice.
Human right activist highlighted the influence of US imperialism and Zionism on the Saudi monarchy. Dozens of protesters gathered outside the U.S. Consulate at 360 University Ave., chanting and carrying signs with quotes from al-Nimr.
The group is also set to hold a similar protest in Ottawa on Wednesday. A petition calling on groups such as Amnesty International to respond to the deaths has started online.
“After years of imprisonment and torture, Saudi Arabia executed top Shi'a cleric Sheikh Nimr in Saudi Arabia. Sheikh Nimr was executed simply because he spoke out. He spoke for the freedom of the minorities in Saudi Arabia and denounced the oppression and human rights violations against them,” the Muslim Society of Ottawa said.
The society said al-Nimr will be remembered as a promoter of unity and peace.
“Sheikh Nimr was brave enough to vocally stand against one of the most authoritarian states on the planet, not only that, but also put aside all ascribed tensions and rivalries between sects.” The cleric’s death has sparked outrage from both government groups and civilians around the world.
Photos: Toronto protesters condemn Saudi Arabia over execution of Shiite cleric al-Nimr
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