Karim Fakhrawi, Bahraini journalist, co-founded Al-Wasat (b. 1962)

Karim Fakhrawi, also known by his full name Abdulkarim Ali Ahmed Fakhrawi, was a notable Bahraini businessman and a pivotal figure in the nation's media landscape. Born around 1962, though the exact year is sometimes cited with a question mark, his life was deeply intertwined with the quest for independent journalism in Bahrain. He co-founded Al-Wasat, an independent newspaper that quickly rose to prominence, becoming one of the most popular and award-winning publications in the country, known for its significant role in public discourse.

Tragically, Fakhrawi's life ended on April 12, 2011, while he was in state custody. This period coincided with the intense political unrest of the 2011 Bahraini uprising, a widespread pro-democracy movement that swept across the kingdom as part of the broader Arab Spring. The circumstances surrounding his death were meticulously investigated by the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry (BICI), an independent body established by the King of Bahrain to probe the events and allegations of human rights abuses during the uprising.

The BICI's report delivered a harrowing conclusion: Karim Fakhrawi died as a direct result of severe torture. This finding cast a stark light on the dangers faced by individuals, particularly media professionals, during periods of civil unrest. His death marked a somber milestone, making him the second professional media worker to be killed during the Bahraini uprising. In the broader context of the entire period of unrest, he was one of three journalists who tragically lost their lives, underscoring the immense risks undertaken by those striving to report independently and provide information to the public amidst such tumultuous events.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Karim Fakhrawi?

Karim Fakhrawi, full name Abdulkarim Ali Ahmed Fakhrawi, was a prominent Bahraini businessman and a co-founder of Al-Wasat newspaper, a leading independent publication in Bahrain.

What was Al-Wasat newspaper?

Al-Wasat was an independent Bahraini newspaper co-founded by Fakhrawi, widely recognized for its popularity and numerous awards, playing a significant role in the country's media landscape.

When and how did Karim Fakhrawi die?

He died on April 12, 2011, while in state custody during the 2011 Bahraini uprising. The Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry (BICI) concluded that his death was due to severe torture.

What was the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry (BICI)?

The BICI was an independent commission established by the King of Bahrain to investigate and report on the events, including allegations of human rights abuses, that occurred during the 2011 Bahraini uprising.

Why was his death particularly significant?

His death was significant as he was the second professional media worker and one of three journalists overall to be killed during the Bahraini uprising, highlighting the extreme dangers faced by those in the media during the unrest and raising concerns about press freedom and human rights.

What was the Bahraini Uprising?

The Bahraini uprising was a series of large-scale pro-democracy protests and demonstrations that began in February 2011, as part of the wider Arab Spring movements, calling for political reforms and greater freedoms in Bahrain.