Bahrain GP exposes kingdom's deep divisions

The three-day sporting event that came to a close on Sunday was presented by the authorities as a sign that security and stability had returned to the kingdom after the Shiite-led uprising in February 2011 was brutally crushed, leaving 35 people dead, according to an independent probe.

A statement by Bahrain's cabinet on Sunday said the Grand Prix “reflects the confidence the world has in Bahrain's ability to host such a global event.”

The king and crown prince both portrayed the race as an opportunity to demonstrate the country was on a path to reconciliation.

But Bahrain's Shiite opposition, including the largest group Al-Wefaq and the more radical February 14 Youth Movement, used the renewed media attention on the kingdom to highlight their demands, with daily protests alleging abuses, marginalization, and disenfranchisement by the regime.

The weekend demonstrations often spiraled into violent clashes with security forces using tear gas and stun grenades against protesters who shot back with rocks and fire bombs.

And as dawn broke on the morning before racing day, the opposition reported the death of a protester, allegedly at the hands of security forces, renewing calls among international rights groups to call off the race.

The government quickly issued a statement condemning the violence, pledging to investigate and prosecute those responsible “whoever they may be,” but stopping short of admitting any police involvement.

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