Manama: A mass trial in Bahrain is under way for 28 doctors and nurses charged in the crackdown on Shi’ite-led protests calling for greater rights.
Monday`s criminal court trial comes just four days before Bahrain`s Sunni rulers seek to open talks with opposition groups in the Gulf island kingdom.
But Shi’ite leaders say authorities must end the protest-linked trials and release detainees before serious dialogue can begin.
The medical personnel are accused of joining the protests that began in February and spreading false information, seen as a reference to speaking to foreign media.
A separate trial began earlier this month for 20 doctors and nurses accused of alleged anti-state plots.
Bahrain`s King is a key US ally, and the nation is home to the US Navy`s 5th Fleet.
Bureau Report
