MANAMA -- Bahrain's opposition group Wefaq has accepted Kuwait's offer to mediate in talks with Bahrain's government to end the political crisis gripping the kingdom. Jasim Husain, a member of Wefaq, said on Sunday that His Highness Shaikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, Amir of Kuwait, has offered to mediate between Bahrain's government and opposition groups. "We welcome the idea of bringing in an outside element," Husain said.He said that Wefaq had no conditions for entering mediation talks but the presence of foreign troops in Bahrain would be a thorny matter in the discussions. Wefaq and its six allies said last week they would not enter talks offered by Bahrain's Crown Prince Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa unless the government pulled troops off the streets and freed prisoners.
Husain said talks must be based on issues outlined by Shaikh Salman. These include an elected government and reform of electoral districts. Wefaq and its allies also want an elected council to redraft the constitution.
A Wefaq delegation is set to meet Kuwaiti politicians, including Parliament Speaker Jassem Al Kharafi, Kuwaiti daily Al Seyassah said.
Bahrain cut curfew times by an hour on Sunday. The curfew from Seef Mall through the financial district to the diplomatic area now runs from 11pm to 4am.