Bahrain's Al Wefaq National Islamic Society was yesterday accused of seeking "a constitutional and political coup", a report said.

"Urging the formation of government in a way other than stipulated in the constitution amounts to an open call for a constitutional and political coup," Al Asala Society said, according to the report in Gulf Daily News, our sister newspaper.

It accused Al Wefaq of seeking to dominate and monopolise the decision-making centres, under cover of calls for democracy.

"This is an open call for constitutional and political coup which Bahrain's system can't bear," it said.

The stance comes in the wake of an Al Wefaq conference, which sought to "tarnish individuals and families and deligitimise the political rule".

"The reactions which followed the conference reflect the deep chasm between Al Wefaq and other mainstream official and national forces regarding the constitution, the National Action Charter and the legitimacy of the political regime," Al Asala said.

It described calls to change the government mechanism formation as "a dangerous and unjustified escalation". Al Wefaq was also accused of seeking to "normalise" specific concepts in Bahrain's political life, the principle of "alternate executive power".

Al Asala defended the legitimacy of the constitution and the National Action Charter which was approved by a sweeping 98.4 per cent of Bahrainis. It also pointed out the constitutional right of the King to form and dissolve the government, which Al Wefaq wants to change.

It was also urged to abide by the constitution and the Charter and respect the pillars and symbols of Bahrain's political system. "These pillars are the sole guarantor of Bahrain's security, stability and peace," it said. - TradeArabia News Service