The High Criminal Court of Appeal in Bahrain is scheduled to hold the first appeal hearing on Monday, 15 June 2026, in the case of Bahraini architect, photographer, and artist Mahdi Taher Wafed Hussein Al Jallawi, who has been detained since March 2026 in connection with the exercise of his right to freedom of expression on social media.
On 12 May 2026, the High Criminal Court sentenced him to ten years’ imprisonment, imposed a fine of 2,000 Bahraini dinars, and ordered the confiscation of his mobile phone.
Al Jallawi’s family and defense team continue to pursue the appeal proceedings amid concerns regarding fair trial guarantees, particularly with respect to the right to effective communication with legal counsel and the adequate preparation of the defense. Although legal counsel attended the court hearings, procedural requirements relating to the formal power of attorney prevented private meetings between the lawyer and his client during the first-instance proceedings.
Mahdi Al Jallawi is regarded as a prominent cultural and artistic figure in Bahrain. He has worked as an architect, photographer, and cultural producer, contributing to numerous national and cultural projects. Among these was his contribution to the artistic design of Bahrain’s electronic passport, in addition to his participation in exhibitions and cultural initiatives both within Bahrain and internationally.
The Amal Center for Human Rights and Justice emphasizes the importance of respecting fair trial guarantees, including the rights to legal defense and confidential access to legal counsel, and calls for the protection of freedom of opinion and expression as guaranteed under international human rights standards.
The Center further reiterates its call for the release of all individuals detained solely for the peaceful exercise of their rights to freedom of opinion and expression.