Shiite Muslim sect from the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia have staged a peaceful march in the town of Awwamiya near the City of Qatif. The primary demands of the protesters was the released of prisoners who have been previously held under the custody of Saudi authorities.
Radi al Suwaileh one of the protesters in Qatif was quoted as saying “We want the prisoners free but we also have other demands,” he further adds “We want equality.”
They are calling for jobs and equal opportunity although there are lots of improvements during the present reign of King Abdullah. Shiites Muslims have experienced discrimination from their fellow Sunni Muslim sects.
The marched held in Qatif and in the town of Awwamiyah was already anticipated by the government of Saudi Arabia. The government have promised to treat the protesters in a peaceful manner.
The Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia was home to thousands Filipino expatriates and any activities that can derailed the economic prosperity of the region will definitely affects the remittance that those Filipinos are regularly sending to their families in the Philippines.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V8OWTOGCtsM[/youtube]
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uisdXQmOng4[/youtube]