Manama: Lawmaker Adel Al Mouawda, one of the senior leaders of Al Asala, the flagship of Salafism in Bahrain, was on Thursday expelled by his society.
The society attributed its decision to non-compliance with the society line on the way to handle the resignations of 18 MPs representing Al Wefaq, and to unwillingness to accommodate the wishes of the people.
"Al Asala Bloc has called for an emergency session of the lower chamber in order to approve the resignations of Al Wefaq," the society said in a statement.
"We have insisted on all our MPs to attend the session and to vote in favour of accepting the resignations of Al Wefaq lawmakers. However, MP Adel Al Mouawda did not uphold the society's decision and did not show up at the session despite his pledge. His absence contributed to the postponement of the session since the required quota could not be reached," the statement said.
Only 18 MPs showed up at the parliament Thursday, three short of the required number to hold the session in which the lawmakers were to vote formally for the acceptance of the resignations.
According to the society, Al Mouawda, the former head of the Salafi movement and the second deputy speaker of the lower chamber, stood against a strong popular demand not to allow Al Wefaq MPs back into the parliament.
"By acting contrary to the society's plans and failing to respond positively to the demands of the people, Al Mouwada is expelled with immediate effect from the bloc," the society said.
"We reiterate our pledge that we will always be close to the beat of the street, regardless of the sacrifices we have to make."
Al Asala said that it was no longer responsible for any statement or stance by Al Mouawda who made history in October by becoming the first MP in Bahrain to be elected three consecutive times, in 2002, 2006 and 2010, to the lower chamber.
