Thousands rally in Bahrain to demand release of jailed activistsAugust 31, 2012 - 22:26 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Thousands of protesters from Shiite opposition groups marched in Bahrain on Friday, Aug 31 to demand the release of jailed activists, according to AFP. The march held under the slogan "Freedom and Democracy" was organized after a two-month break in demonstrations in the tiny Gulf monarchy ruled by a Sunni minority. It was held near a motorway connecting Shiite villages with Manama. Protesters, including women, waved Bahraini flags and pictures of jailed activists from Shiite opposition groups, the witnesses said. They carried portraits of Nabil Rajab, a human rights activist sentenced to three years in prison for participating in illegal demonstrations, and placards reading "Free Nabil Rajab." "We do not forget the prisoners!" the demonstrators chanted. Friday's rally follows a two-month ban imposed by the interior ministry to "restore order" after complaints of damage at venues of demonstrations, according to officials. Shiite-majority Bahrain, which is ruled by a Sunni dynasty, has come under strong criticism from international rights groups over a bloody crackdown on protests last year inspired by the Arab Spring uprisings. Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. Armenia PM, France envoy discuss regional matters Issues related to the consistent development of Armenia-France cooperation were discussed. Azerbaijan razes historic Armenian church to ground Azerbaijan has demolished the historic Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist (known as Kanach Zham). Russia to begin assessing migrant workers' speaking skills Rosobrnadzor is planning to change the Russian language exam for migrant workers and include an assessment of speaking skills |