Columnists and netizens are weighing in on a proposed law to extend detention without trial in Qatar to three years. 

The existing law allows for two weeks of detention without trial, which can be stretched to six months.

Those arguing against the new law question its constitutionality.

The Peninsula reports:

Al Arab columnist, Mohamed Al Khulaifi, wrote that it was in violation of the very spirit of the Qatari Constitution which guaranteed an independent judiciary.

“The Minister of Interior is not a judge,” wrote Al Khulaifi suggesting that Qatar’s very polity was based on the separation of the powers of the executive and the judiciary.

But supporters say the new law is necessary to maintain stability and avoid an “Arab Spring” situation from occurring here.

Others said they agreed that in a multicultural society, strong deterrents are needed to maintain the safety of the community.

Read the full Peninsula article here.

What do you guys think? Is this a necessary move or a step in the wrong direction for Qatar?