F1 part of Bahrain power struggle
Protesters step up campaign against coveted race in Manama
MANAMA: A year after an antigovernment revolt forced Bahrain’s rulers to cancel the kingdom’s coveted Formula One race, the grand prix is again smack in the middle of a power struggle.
Protesters aiming to break the Sunni regime’s grip on power have stepped up their campaign against the event – holding rallies across the island, plastering anti-Formula One posters on walls and criticising the F1 chief and race drivers on social media websites.
The country’s leadership is determined to stage the April 22 race as it seeks to show signs of stability nearly 14 months after the country’s Shi’ite majority began a sustained uprising seeking a greater voice in the affairs of the kingdom, which is home to the US Navy’s 5th Fleet.
But opposition supporters are equally determined to spoil the party and instead draw attention to their grievances.
“We don’t want Formula One in our country,” Ali Mohammed said during a recent rally against the Bahraingpin the capital, Manama. “They are killing us every day with tear gas. They have no respect for human rights or democracy. Why would we keep silent?”
“No one will enjoy the F1 in Bahrain with cries for freedom from the inside and outside of the race,” he added.
Human rights groups also have criticised the decision of the world racing body to reinstate the Bahrain race this year. Bahrain’s Shi’ite majority is demanding more rights and opportunities, equal to the Sunni minority that rules Bahrain.
Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa owns the rights to grand prix and serves as commander of the armed forces. — AP