CLAIMS that gay men are frequenting certain sheesha cafes in Bahrain have prompted calls for a nationwide clampdown.
The issue has been taken up by conservative Islamist bloc Al Asala after it won three seats in the new parliament.
Its representative MP Ali Al Zayed, who is parliament’s third most senior member, said talks were being sought with authorities amid allegations that some cafes were even being used for gay sex.
“The situation is alarming,” said Mr Al Zayed, who is parliament’s second vice-chairman.
“The problem is that even after doors, locks and curtains were removed (from private cubicles) the issue continued and noises are still heard.
“Even when sitting in open spaces they will hug and kiss.
“They make provocative gestures to each other and even other customers, who have complained.
“The presence of those men is giving the country a bad reputation.
“They are all across the country, whether at Amwaj Islands, Riffa or Nuwaidrat. The time has come for tougher raids.”
Mr Al Zayed revealed there were plans to hold talks with concerned government bodies in the coming days to discuss options.
“We want real solutions to gay immorality,” he said.
“I don’t think security officials can tackle it permanently, but trying will make a significant difference and stop many others.”
His fellow Al Asala MP Ahmed Al Ansari, who served as Southern Municipal Council between 2014 and 2018, said he had received complaints about gay activity in sheesha cafes during that period.
However, he said the removal of private booths at cafes had only deterred amorous heterosexual couples.
“It scared mixed couples, but not homosexuals,” he said.
“They are unaffected and will continue doing what they regularly do with each other, or those seated around them, undeterred.
“This is really sick and offenders have to be dealt with seriously.
“We inspected some places with police a few months ago, but most tended to be quiet and rare violations were addressed legally.
“I think the timings we chose were wrong, but this time things need to be done right.
“We are not against tourism or gatherings, even if we are against smoking – although I personally consider this a personal choice.
“We want action against homosexuality.”
He also said coffee shop owners had refused to deny entry to openly gay clientele.
“The owners say they want customers,” added Mr Al Ansari.
“They don’t care whether customers are homosexual or not, but they did specify that certain individuals who got out of hand were ordered to behave.
“They said that unless homosexuals approached other customers and bothered them – either offering sexual favours or flirting – they wouldn’t do anything.
“A few customers complained that, while using their laptops or watching TV, a group of homosexuals on a table blew kisses at them – which really made them feel uncomfortable.
“Owners and staff just told them to behave and did not order them to leave.”
mohammed@gdn.com.bh
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