Citizens’ welfare first: Dr Khawla Al Shamsi

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com   

Report by Mohammed Darwish

After getting the green light for her candidacy in Muharraq’s first constituency, Dr Khawla Al Shamsi has hit the ground running with her campaign for the upcoming by-elections. The Daily Tribune sat down with her to discuss her journey and aspirations.

Q: Tell us about your academic and professional background?

A: I completed my Bachelor’s at the University of Bahrain, followed by a Master’s in Public Relations and Media from Al Ahliya University. I then moved on to pursue a PhD in Legislation and Online Publication, and professionally, I’ve spent two decades working an administrative job in a key government ministry.

Alongside that, I’m a licensed attorney in cessation courts and also an academic lecturer within the same ministry.

Q: What would be your primary focus if you were to win?

A: Given the nature of this by-election, we need to adjust our priorities accordingly.

My chief aim is to put the interests of the citizens first. Unemployment is a pressing concern in Busaiteen, with nearly every household having at least one unemployed member. I plan to advance the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries’ employment platform initiative 2020–2023, which I believe could have a positive impact on local employment rates.

Moreover, I intend to tackle unemployment by promoting awareness of the potential benefits of technology in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior, which has made considerable strides in recent years.

Q: How do you view your chances in the election? And what do you think about those who suggest the constituency is already decided in favour of one candidate?

A: I believe my chances are strong, particularly given my academic and practical experience, alongside the leadership roles I’ve taken on. My strategy is to reach out to voters through my comprehensive electoral plan. The notion that the constituency is already decided in favour of one candidate is something I strongly reject; it reflects a lack of confidence in the democratic reform process initiated by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, which is designed to allow everyone to voice their views in a civilised manner, free of preconceived assumptions.

Q: What are your goals concerning women’s issues?

A: I believe women, with their unique emotional insight, can excel in any field. This belief is supported by Her Highness Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, who advocates for Bahraini women’s roles and global presence. This year’s theme, “Women worthy partners in nation-building,” resonates with my vision for enhancing women’s roles in parliament.

Q: How do you plan to improve the living and working conditions of expatriate employees?

A: We must extend and enforce the midday summer ban to protect workers from extreme heat, and I back the Ministry of Labour’s efforts on this front. Also, improving oversight and managing truck congestion during peak hours is critical.

Q: Are there any additional concerns you plan to address if elected?

A: An oft-overlooked area is improving services for the elderly in government hospitals and care homes, particularly by cutting waiting times in radiology departments.

Q: How will you handle the debate between the Shura and Representatives Councils over parliamentary oversight of the retirement fund?

A: My focus will be on addressing retirees’ concerns pragmatically, beyond the debate over nomenclature. It’s crucial to expedite these matters and reinstate the annual increase for retirees.

Q: Finally, what are your core principles?

A: Integrity and honesty drive my approach, both professionally and personally. I seek to collaborate with skilled individuals to advance the prosperity vision outlined by His Majesty the King.

This approach isn’t just about hitting the right notes during the campaign — it’s about upholding decorum and respect in every action we take, ensuring that the ideals we stand for are not merely concepts in our minds but also reflected in our policies and actions.