Global Rallies Planned in Solidarity with Jailed Saudi Opposition Leader
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Anti-Saudi rallies are planned to be held across the world next week in support of prominent Shiite cleric Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr, who has been sentenced to death on political charges.
Human rights activists have called for massive protests around the globe on May 16 in solidary with the jailed opposition leader.
They have also urged the Al Saud regime to immediately revoke Sheikh Nimr's death sentence and release him, the Arabic language al-Manama news website reported.
Back in early March, a Saudi Arabian appeal court approved the death penalty of the prominent cleric.
Sheikh Nimr was detained in July 2012 following demonstrations that erupted in Qatif region, Saudi Arabia. He is accused of delivering anti-regime speeches and defending political prisoners.
His arrest has sparked widespread protests in the Arab country, leaving several people dead.
On October 15, Sheikh Nimr's family reported that a Saudi judge has found him guilty of "sedition" and sentenced him to death.
Activists say there are over 30,000 political prisoners in Saudi Arabia.
International human rights organizations have criticized Saudi Arabia for failing to address the rights situation in the kingdom. They say Saudi Arabia has persistently implemented repressive policies that stifle freedom of expression, association and assembly.
