His frank words on social issues and government policies as a columnist in the kingdom’s leading popular press, Alwasat and now Alwattan, have made him a household name in Bahrain. Now the outspoken religious leader is entering the upcoming Parliamentary elections, where his wife will also be vying for a place. Shaikh Sayed Dheya talks to BC about youthful indiscretions, politics, business and the true meaning of Ramadan.

What do you do?

I am working to build a universal culture for all humanity, without colour prejudice or religious fanaticism. I would like one day to see a meeting between the church, mosque and country.

What are you determined to achieve?

A change from a culture based upon passion, to a new way of life built upon a rational foundation. I am writing books which I hope will directly affect people’s thinking, using the Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him), Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King as my inspiration. To impact society, I use strong language and my writings are purposefully challenging.

What has been your most valuable lesson learned?

That kindness and humanity to others brings advantage to everyone.

What has been your hardest lesson learned?

That the reality of success is in creating false friends and real enemies.

What does Ramadan mean to you?

Ramadan is a time for helping each other, for feeling the sufferings of the poor and hungry but instead, we make it a season of food.

How do you see the relation between business and religion?

It is an organic relationship. However, whilst on the one hand we have forbidden the sale of alcohol during Ramadan, on the other, I feel some Islamic banks take the usury from the window and return it through the door, and are thus capitalist banking with a different hat on.

How does, and how should, religion affect government policy?

Religion needs to be a part of government to build a modern country. The message of Imams has not changed over the years but it is important for us to remain open to the young and all the modern developments occurring in the world, including those of the human sciences. Personally, I am for a quota system to help introduce women in to government because society is too male dominant.

Where does the kingdom’s greatest potential lie?

In maintaining social justice and national unity whilst building a strong economy to raise the quality of life for all in Bahrain but particularly the poor. The challenge for the future lies in completing the reformation project in a manner that retains all the advantages whilst preparing for the disadvantages.

What makes you angry?

When people step without study; for example, those who promote sectarianism or politics that push society into a morass.

What is your greatest regret?

Imprisoning myself in party groups at a certain stage in my life. I was blind then.