Protests in Bahrain

ROUGH CUT (NO REPORTER NARRATION)

STORY: Thousands of Bahrainis held a peaceful anti-government protest in a suburb of the capital, Manama, on Friday (February 3) to demand the release of political prisoners and political reforms.

The march, in a district populated by the Shi'ite majority who have dominated protests over the past year, was organized by opposition parties and approved by police.

"Yes to democracy, no to dictatorship" and "We won't forget you, prisoners" were some of the slogans, while the protest leader chanted "No backdown, no concessions".

Opposition supporters are trying to sustain pressure on the government, dominated by the Sunni Muslim Al Khalifa family, for more political reforms ahead of the Feb. 14 anniversary of a pro-democracy uprising last year.

Activists want political reforms that would allow an elected government and reduce powers for the ruling family.