Kuwaiti authorities release opposition leader Musallam al-Barrack

Authorities in Kuwait warned Thursday they will use harsher measures to crack down on anti-government demonstrators defying bans on protest gatherings in the increasingly tense Gulf nation.                     

The statement came just hours after clashes between security forces and thousands of protesters who had gathered outside a prison in Kuwait City on Wednesday evening to demand the release of an opposition leader, Musallam al-Barrack, who is under investigation for allegedly insulting Kuwait's emir.                     

Al-Barrack, a former parliament member, was released from custody Thursday on bail of 10,000 dinars (more than $35,500), Kuwait media reported.                       

Kuwait last week banned any public gathering of more than 20 people in attempts to quash growing protests led by opposition factions that include Islamists, which is seeking to reclaim control of parliament in elections planned for Dec. 1.                                      

But Kuwaiti officials have taken a hardline position as protests have moved to the streets. Kuwait's Interior Ministry said forces will "firmly" confront any new demonstrations.       

It said a "number" of protesters have been arrested, including a driver who allegedly tried to run over four policemen late Wednesday.       


AP