A NATIONAL strategy to protect and uphold Bahrain’s values and traditions and combat ‘alien thoughts’ that contradict Sharia and human nature was approved unanimously by MPs yesterday.
The proposal by five MPs is spearheaded by Bader Al Tamimi who believes the West’s media machines and business empires ‘are spreading destructive ideologies and homosexuality through art, music, sports and advertisements’.
He added that the ideologies were being ‘directly and indirectly inculcated in the name of acceptance and human rights’.
Outspoken MP Jalal Kadhem attacked Bahraini lawyers saying they were marketing family cases on social media to receive attention and make money.
“We should treat ourselves first before blaming the West for the alien thoughts spreading in society,” he said.
“No one is forcing parents to buy their children iPads or smart phones, so it is parents to blame.
“Social media in Bahrain is being misused excessively. We see female lawyers turning into bloggers by showcasing family cases to get attention and make money, while encouraging women to stand up, get a divorce and seek unknown rights from their parents and husbands.
“The Supreme Judicial Council should take action against them immediately.”
Parliament and Shura Council Affairs Minister Ghanim Al Buainain said accusations against a respected segment of society, especially justice, was unacceptable.
“Our society is strong and upholds values and we seek more strength, but attacking lawyers for an alleged downfall in morals is something that no one accepts.
“I agree there are issues spreading in the community, but they are from other alien sources that have nothing to do with our social fabric.”
While backing it in principle, the Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Ministry called on MPs to co-ordinate with all relevant ministries, authorities and government bodies to draw up the strategy’s core scope of work before approving it.
The Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs also supported the move, saying such threats were already being tackled at different levels and through numerous efforts.
However, the council added that a clear strategy would render the process more organised, precise and effective.
Meanwhile, MPs unanimously approved an urgent proposal to oblige the Labour Ministry to draw up separate lists for newcomers who found jobs and those moving to new workplaces.
They also unanimously approved another proposal to review criteria for housing services to allow more Bahraini families to benefit from it.
Housing and Urban Planning Minister Amna Al Romaihi said the move would require financial and technical study.
MPs also unanimously approved a proposal for a clear strategy to reduce public debt through proper use of funds and revenues.
Parliament voted unanimously in favour of a plan to demolish and rebuild the historic Zainalabadeen and Al A’ali Mosques in Old Manama Suq, which MPs claim are in a derelict state.
Also during the session, MPs unanimously approved urgent proposal to establish a creativity centre for inventors.
All will be reviewed by the Cabinet.
MPs unanimously approved an urgent proposal to issue a statement on Bahraini Women’s Day, which falls on Friday, and deputised Parliament Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam to draft it on their behalf.
This comes despite Mr Al Musallam giving a speech on the occasion at the beginning of the weekly session.
Parliament also unanimously approved holding an open debate on pensioners’ welfare and huge losses in Social Insurance Organisation (SIO) investment coffers.
First deputy Speaker Abdulnabi Salman said pensioners were being faced with deteriorating living standards that require attention.
Mr Al Musallam has been tasked to make the arrangement for the responsible minister to appear during an upcoming session.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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