The Kingdom of Bahrain’s Interior Ministry warned people not to respond or react to incitement from political events and social media posts that use the title “Rebellion August 14” and that encourage the overthrow of the government.
The Ministry said that it was issuing this warning as part of a responsibility to protect the security and stability of the nation and the legal duty to citizens and residents.
Rallies and activities that effect security, general order, civil peace and the interests of the people are against the law. Participants will have legal procedures taken against them.
Incitement to violence is a crime in accordance with article 156 of the penal code, which penalizes those who incite others to violence with jail. In the terrorism law, legislators enacted a penalty of up to five years for inciting violence even if the person in question did not commit any violence himself.
The Interior Ministry stresses that there are some who insist on exploiting the freedom and democracy of the Kingdom and use irresponsible speech at a time when the country is working to move forward through the National Consensus Dialogue.
The Ministry highlighted the importance of wisdom and national responsibility while maintaining the security and stability of the nation and its national interests.
Meanwhile, security forces have taken all precautionary measures to protect the security of the people and of public and private property throughout Bahrain. Any sign of disturbance will be dealt with in accordance with the law. “The safety of the country and protection of lives are the top priorities of the Ministry,” the statement added.
The National Action Charter and the constitution protect freedoms and human rights. However, that does not include violence as it is against the religious values, laws and national standards of the country, as well as the best interests of the tolerant Bahraini society.