Husain has insisted his views are his own and not that of Al-Wefaq, saying: “I
don’t see lots of protests throughout the country, especially outside the
vicinity of the racing area.
“But yes, there is this fear, the fear is there that we could see some
casualties.
“So it’s now a challenge for the security forces who have to handle
things properly. They should avoid using force.
“Of course, people should be free to express their views, but the
responsibility is with the authorities who have to show professionalism in
managing any protest.
“The good thing is people are peaceful, protesters are peaceful, that
violence is not really any particular part of the political challenge in the
country.
“But things have to be handled properly by the authorities.”
F1’s rulers have naturally been eager to distance themselves from the
political or moral argument, although there is the suggestion it is being
used as a tool for the former.
Given the daily protests against the ruling Bahraini regime, operating under
the slogan ‘UniF1ed – One Nation in Celebration’ would appear to underline
F1’s significance when it comes to purporting all is well, when it is far
from the case.
Instead, FIA president Jean Todt asserts his organisation “are only
interested in sport not politics”, with Husein believing it wrong F1 is
portrayed as being in support of the ruling al-Khalifa royal family.
“That’s the problem really. It should not be presented this way,”
said Husein.
“F1 is a sport, an economic positive, and I hope neither side will see
the race as a political tool.
“We do have political issues which have to be addressed, and F1 coming or
not coming does not mean those problems will go away.
“But certainly this is not a political event and should not have
political implications.
“However, we are suffering from this problem because it is being
presented this way.
“People are simply pressing for democratic reforms, and ensuring there is
equal opportunity for all, to have real participation in decision making.”
One unnamed protester, however, believes F1 does Bahrain no favours as he
said: “People here are getting killed, and with F1 here we feel like
they are driving on our blood, on our bodies.”
Further demonstrations are due to take place over the next few days, with one
in particular today on the doorstep of the Gulf kingdom’s international
airport.
It is understood the focus will not only solely centre on pro-democracy
rights, but also anti-F1.
Tomorrow, when most F1 personnel are due to arrive, what has been described by
a risk assessment group as “a vehicular rally” is to take place
along the two highways that lead up to the airport.