Revise citizenship law to stave off dangers : MP

Manama : A Bahraini lawmaker has called for amending the existing citizenship law in Bahrain to prevent naturalising the “wrong” people, who are loyal to other countries.

MP Mohammed Al Maarifi once again stressed on the importance of his proposal submitted in May, demanding to quiz applicants for the Bahraini citizenship, to ensure their knowledge and loyalty to the Kingdom.

His remarks came following the hullabaloo over revoking the citizenship of controversial religious cleric Isa Qassim, who became a Bahraini citizen in the 1960s.

Qassim, who has his roots in Iran, was stripped of his Bahraini citizenship by the Cabinet decision on June 20 owing to his involvement in promoting sectarian division, hatred against a division of the Bahraini society, illegal fundraising and money laundering activities. He was also accused of misusing religious platforms and collaborating with hostile foreign organisations.

Speaking to DT News, Al Maarifi said, “The Bahraini citizenship is an honour granted by HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for people living on this island. Those who received this honour should be responsible and respect their national duties.”

“Time has proved that many people who speak the language of the country and are living off it are loyal to other countries and political and religious movements,” Al Maarifi commented.

Al Maarifi, who’s also a member of Parliament’s Human Rights Committee, said: “Qassim was given many chances to amend his behaviour and prove his loyalty to the Kingdom. His insistence on harming the interests of Bahrain has led to revoking his citizenship. The decision was taken in accordance with the law.” 

Stressing that the proposal isn’t out-of-tune, the MP said, “The US and other European countries follow strict procedures for citizenship applicants. Their conditions include knowledge of each country’s laws and traditions before naturalising citizens.”

“The laws, in general, must be revised, considering the continuous international and regional developments, in terms of security, economy and other aspects,” Al Maarifi added.

DT News reported in May that Al Maarifi had submitted a proposal to amend Article 6 of Bahraini Citizenship Act – 1963. He said back then, “Those who apply for Bahraini citizenship should prove their knowledge of Bahrain by passing a number of exams on the Bahraini history and society.” The proposal was passed to Shura Council for further studying.