Members of Parliament take 45-minute prayer break to ease tensions amid social media posts controversy

TDT | Manama

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The Council of Representatives stopped for a 45-minute prayer break after MP Hamad Al Doy’s outburst over complaints linked to his social media posts about beach behaviour on Amwaj Island. The Amwaj Islands Central Owners Association had formally objected to his posts, which accused people on the island’s beaches of inappropriate conduct. Al Doy’s confrontation with other MPs escalated when he accused MPs Ahmed Al Salloom and Khalid Buanaq of filing a case against him. Given permission to speak by Speaker Ahmed bin Salman Al Musallam, he declared, “This is a matter of honour to me, and you refuse to hear the truth; set the record straight.”

Tensions

As tensions rose, the Council Chairman urged Al Doy to “sit down”. Al Doy refused, stating, “I won’t sit; I will speak and finish,” which further stirred the chamber. Newly elected MP Abdulwahid Qaratah then called for a pause and, along with other MPs, led Al Doy out to ease the situation. Outside, the Chairman announced the prayer break.

Duty

Before leaving, Al Doy vowed to return and resolve the issue, saying he had a duty to the public and his conscience. Earlier, it was revealed that a request had been made on Monday to lift Al Doy’s parliamentary immunity due to the association’s complaint. They later issued a statement, saying their legal advisor would pursue a defamation suit. Al Doy responded by accusing the association of hiding the truth and twisting his words.