Saudi authorities have released a Shia cleric two days after Shia in the eastern region demonstrated demanding his release. Tawfiq al-Amer, who was arrested last week after he called for a constitutional monarchy, was released Sunday, a close associate of al-Amer said. He spoke on condition of anonymity, fearing government reprisal.
Some 100 Shia demonstrated after Friday prayers in the eastern town of Hofuf demanding his release. Saudi Interior Ministry on Saturday banned demonstrations, saying they contradict Islamic laws and society's values and warned that security forces will act against violators.
The country's 18-member highest religious authority supported the ban Sunday, saying reforms could not be achieved by demonstrations but by admonishment.
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