New Rules Issued In Kuwait for Muharram Observances in Homes, Mosques, and Schools
KUWAIT CITY, June 25: First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef held a meeting yesterday with representatives of the committee formed during the recent Hussainiyat gathering. The meeting focused on regulatory measures for the upcoming Muharram ceremonies, taking into account recent developments and the requirements of religious rituals.
Following the meeting, the committee issued a statement summarizing the key directives agreed upon:
Majlis Attendance in Homes: Gatherings in private homes (majlises) are permitted with a maximum of 50 attendees, provided the number aligns with the house's capacity. Participants must remain indoors, and the use of outdoor loudspeakers or standing in prohibited areas is strictly forbidden.
Acceptance of Donations: Hussainiyat are allowed to receive vows and both financial and in-kind contributions to support ritual expenses.
Post-Ashura Venue Options: After the tenth of Muharram, Hussainiyat may choose to continue ceremonies within school premises or return to their original locations. In either case, all activities must remain within the boundaries of the Hussainiyat, and external loudspeakers are not allowed.
Cooking Regulations: Cooking will be permitted on school premises. Kitchens in Hussainiyat must comply with safety standards set by the General Fire Department.
Mosque Readings: Religious readings in mosques may take place at any time during the day but must conclude by 9:00 PM.
I nterior Ministry Oversight: The Ministry of Interior will have full authority over the organization and enforcement of all regulations related to Hussainiyat activities, regardless of location, whether in schools, mosques, Hussainiyat centers, or private homes.
Public Attendance Restrictions: During the first ten days of Muharram, Hussainiyat will not be open to the public. Ceremonies are to be broadcast electronically, without in-person attendance.
The committee expressed its gratitude to Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, stating: "On behalf of the custodians of the Hussainiyat and their honorable visitors, we extend our sincere appreciation to the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior for granting us this audience amid these exceptional circumstances. We pray for the continued safety and security of our beloved nation under the leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled."
The outlined measures aim to balance religious observance with public safety as the nation approaches the holy month of Muharram.
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