Yemeni Clerics Withdraw Proposal For Religious Police Force

In Yemen, conservative Muslim clerics have withdrawn their call for creation of "religious police" in the country. (See prior posting.) M&C reported yesterday that some 4,000 clerics at a conference in Sana'a, responding to concerns of human rights activists, called instead for an annual meeting to discuss violations against teachings of the Islamic law and public morals. They expressed particular concern with prostitution activities and with serving of alcohol in some restaurants and hotels. In response, authorities closed down a massage club and two restaurants.