The proposal by Lt. Gen. Sheik Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa seeks to strengthen the government's hand against escalating pro-reform protests by the kingdom's Shiite majority.
The official Bahrain News Agency says the plan was sent to the country's parliament Monday for review. The chamber is dominated by pro-government lawmakers.
Bahrain claims more than 40 riot police were injured last week in attacks that included the hurling of firebombs.
The Shiite-led uprising seeking greater rights began nearly a year ago. Authorities worry that unrest will increase before the Feb. 14 anniversary.
|