SHAFAQNA (Shia International News Association) – Voting has begun in Bahrain’s first full parliamentary election since protests erupted four years ago. The country’s Shia opposition has called for voters to boycott the election. A total of 419 candidates are running for municipal and parliamentary seats, state media says.
The elections, however, are unlikely to defuse tensions between Bahrain’s Sunni monarchy and Shia majority who continue to protest for greater rights and a greater say in government. The elections are being watched closely by Bahrain’s Persian Gulf neighbours and Washington. Bahrain hosts the US Navy’s 5th Fleet and is an ally of the Americans in the region.
Source: International media
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