On January 6, newspapers reported that in Kuwait City,...

On January 6, newspapers reported that in Kuwait City, a group of MPs called for the Islamic punishments of flogging, amputation and stoning to be introduced to Kuwait. The bill submitted to Kuwait's Parliament follows a concerted campaign by religious MPs led by Walid al-Tabtabai, a former university professor of Shari'a law, to "clean up" Kuwait. Under this proposed 280-article bill, rapists would face 100 lashes as well as a minimum 10-year jail term, which would be increased to a death sentence or life prison term if the victim was less then 7 years old, mentally retarded, a relative or a maid. Abortion is classified under premeditated murder in the bill, and would be punishable by the death penalty. Converts from Islam would have only 30 days to repent and revert to their religion or face being sentenced to death in all but exceptional cases, as Islam does not allow its followers to convert. Adulterers charged after testimony of 4 male witnesses or a confession would be given 100 lashes, thieves in this oil-rich emirate who steal more than the equivalent value of 17g (around half an ounce) of gold from people other than relatives would have their right hand amputated after a thorough medical examination, while sodomy carries 40 lashes and a jail term. Drinking alcohol similarly carries 40 lashes, but defamation 80 lashes.