Ragheb Alama banned from performing in Egypt after concert kiss
The head of the Musicians Syndicate, Mostafa Kamel, said in a statement: 'For two days, I have been following shameful behavior that violates all Egyptian customs, traditions, and societal values. We have never been accustomed to this in our country before, and we will not allow it to be repeated. Egypt's stages have been graced by some of the greatest artists in Egypt and the Arab world, both artistically and in value. They have never been, and never will be, a breeding ground for kisses, undisciplined gestures, and disgusting hugs.'
He added: 'With my sincere respect and appreciation to Mr. Farid Bou Said, the head of the Musicians Syndicate in our sister country, Lebanon, and to all our brothers and sisters in the beloved Lebanese people, we have decided the following':
Summon Alama to the headquarters of the Musicians Syndicate in Egypt for investigation into his deliberate violation of Egyptian norms, customs, and traditions. We will also suspend his work permit in Egypt pending his appearance for investigation at the Syndicate's headquarters.
Contact the officials of the Chamber of Tourism Establishments to meet with them or their representatives to make our joint decision to summon the owner of the tourist establishment that hosted this concert, which represents a clear and deliberate violation of all Egyptian values, norms, customs, and traditions.
Alama commented on the decision to suspend him over what happened during his recent concert, after a video surfaced showing a fan kissing him on stage.
The singer said in a phone call with Al-Nahar TV: 'I was talking to my friend, artist Mostafa Kamel, the head of the Musicians Syndicate, and I explained the situation to him. What happened was that the girl grabbed me in her joy as I was coming off the stage and kissed me. The kiss wasn't on my mouth. I swear to God, that didn't happen.'
He affirmed his complete respect for the Egyptian audience and people, adding, 'I hold the organizers responsible because people were going to the theater. I respect the audience and I am well aware that tourism in Egypt is a great responsibility.'
'I contacted the head of the syndicate and I respect the syndicate's decision and place myself at its disposal. God willing, I will visit the syndicate next week.'
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