Sana'a, Yemen - Yemeni conservative Muslim preachers on Tuesday withdrew calls for the establishment of an organisation for promoting virtue and combating vice after rights activists voiced fears that religious police could undermine freedoms. Around 4,000 preachers gathered at a conference centre in the capital Sana'a and called instead for an annual meeting to discuss violations against teachings of the Islamic law and public morals.
The gathering particularly criticised prostitution activities in some cities and publicly serving alcohol at hotels and restaurants frequented by foreigners and locals alike.
"Our society is being invaded by the viruses of vice that destroyed the people, and it is necessary now to protect and guard the religion and people," fundamentalist Islamic leader Abdul-Majeed al-Zendani said in an address to the gathering.
Authorities were quick to respond to the call and closed several centres Tuesday, including a Chinese massage club and two restaurants which serve alcohol in Sana'a.
A Deutsche Presse-Agentur
