Shias in capital protest Shia cleric's execution by Saudi Arabia

Around 50 Shia Muslims yesterday formed a human chain in front of Jatiya Press Club in the capital protesting the execution of a prominent Shia cleric Nimr al-Nimr by Sunni majority Saudi Arabia, on January 2.

Saudi Arabia executed 47 people for terrorism, mostly suspected al-Qaeda members but also Nimr, the outspoken opponent of the ruling Al Saud family, according to a Reuters report. The execution drew angry condemnation from Shia communities across the world, including Iran.

Kazi M Delawar Hussain, a participant, said the "killing" can affect the unity and harmony among the Muslims.

Another participant Ashraf-ul-Alam asked the Saudi authorities to apologise for their actions.