AD calls for cancellation of Formula 1 race in Bahrain

Alternattiva Demokratika has called on the Maltese government to speak openly against the holding of next week's Formula One Grand Prix race in Bahrain.

AD spokesperson on EU and International Affairs Arnold Cassola said "Despite the lack of real democracy in Bahrain, where hundreds of people have been detained and are repressed, strong pressure is being made so that the Bahrain Formula One Grand Prix still goes on because scores of millions of euros are at stake."

Cassola explained that the Maltese government and the international community cannot accept such reasoning.  "What is good for the Libyan, Tunisian, Egyptian and Syrian goose is also good for the Bahrain gander.  Not holding the Formula One Grand Prix in the Gulf state will be a clear signal of the international community that the respect of basic human rights is a must for all states," Cassola said.

Earlier this month, Bahraini protesters have intensified their demonstrations after the Formula 1 boss, Bernie Ecclestone, insisted on holding the race, despite the protests against the race.

The race had already been cancelled last year due to protests that gripped the country after a mid-March crackdown on protests demanding democratic reforms.