CHP MP questions ‘distribution of digital prayer beads’ against ISIL in Kilis

ISTANBUL

A deputy from the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) has submitted a parliamentary question over claims that the mayor of Kilis has distributed “digital prayer beads” to citizens amid Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) attacks on the embattled southeastern province, news portal Bianet has reported.

CHP Istanbul deputy Sezgin Tanrıkulu submitted the question, to be answered by Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu, in which he pointed to claims that Kilis Mayor Hasan Kara distributed ”zikirmatiks,” a digital device used in place of prayer beads, to residents as a precaution against ISIL attacks.

Tanrıkulu asked whether the government would take more concrete precautions to maintain security in the province.

The question recalled that a total of 21 people have been killed and more than 70 wounded in rocket attacks originating from ISIL-controlled areas in northern Syria in recent months.

It also added that Kilis Governor Süleyman Tapsız had previously suggested that citizens refrain from going outside without first taking ritual ablutions.

The “zikirmatik” helps people keep count out their prayers by pushing a button while praying.