Protests as Bahrain hands opposition figures life sentences

BAHRAIN sentenced 10 prominent Shi’ite Muslim activists and opposition leaders to life in prison on charges of plotting a coup during protests in the Gulf island kingdom earlier this year.

The sentencing could inflame tension in the Gulf Arab state where demonstrators have mounted daily protests since emergency law was lifted on June 1. It may also undermine the basis for a national dialogue planned to start next month.

Seconds after the verdict was issued, one of 21 defendants lined up in grey prison suits shouted: “We will continue our peaceful struggle.” Other defendants responded by shaking their fists and shouting “peaceful, peaceful.”