By Fatimah Al-Debais

Okaz/Saudi Gazette

RIYADH — The Shoura Council postponed deliberations on the recommendation not to close shops during prayer times, Okaz/Saudi Gazette has learned.

The Council informed its members about the decision to postpone the discussion of the annual report of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, two hours before the start of the session on Monday.

The postponement of the discussion of the report led to the postponement of voting on two specific recommendations. The first was submitted by Dr. Fahd Al-Tukhaifi and Eng. Ali Al-Qarni, calling on the Ministry of Islamic Affairs to coordinate with the National Center for Privatization to prepare a study for the privatization of some of the ministry’s services related to mosques, such as building, repairing, and cleaning mosques.

The second recommendation sought not to compel commercial establishments and shops to close during prayer times except for Friday prayers. The recommendation was submitted by the Shoura members Ata Al-Subaiti, Dr. Faisal Al-Fadel, Dr. Latifa Al-Shaalan and Dr. Latifa Al-Abdulkarim.

In their proposal, the Council members call on the ministry to work in coordination with the concerned agencies, not to compel commercial establishments, including gas stations and pharmacies, to close during daily prayer times, except for Fridays.

The Council also postponed other recommendations calling on the Ministry of Islamic Affairs to activate its decisions and circulars, regarding the responsibilities of an imam and a muezzin in mosques, and a recommendation to support the ministry in creating more jobs for imams and preachers.