Council of Representatives resumes session; newly elected MP Abdulwahid Qarata sworn in to office

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Email: mail@newsobahrain.com

The Council of Representatives resumed its latest session yesterday, with intense competition for key committee leadership roles adding a layer of intrigue to the proceedings. Newly elected MP Abdulwahid Qarata quietly took his oath of office, stepping in for Mohammed Al Hussaini, who lost his seat in July due to dual citizenship.

The Financial and Economic Affairs, Foreign Affairs, and Services committees are central to this power struggle, as several MPs seek control.

Leadership

While Mahmood Fardan and Mohammed Al Balushi are expected to take the reins of the Legislative and Public Utilities committees, respectively, elections for the remaining committees are highly contested.

The Financial, Foreign Affairs, and Services committees are particularly desirable, with considerable competition brewing.

Agenda

Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam, during the initial 20-minute procedural meeting of the sixth legislative term, expressed gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for opening the session and setting the agenda for parliamentary work.

All members were present except Mohsen Al Asbool. The Council approved a statement expressing optimism for the months ahead.

Al Musallam regarded HM the King’s address as a guide for the Council of Representatives, steering the formulation of legislation that supports sustainable development.

Focus

He noted the importance of HM King Hamad’s focus on reinforcing national identity and social cohesion, pledging to collaborate closely with the Shura Council, led by Ali bin Saleh Al Saleh, to achieve the aims laid out in the Royal Address.

MP Abdulhakim Al Sheno affirmed that HM the King’s speech serves as a roadmap for the work of the Council of Representatives in the upcoming phase, guiding them in formulating legislation that contributes to enhancing sustainable development.

As the public looks for action on reducing debt and the deficit, Deputy Speaker Abdulnabi Salman recognised the challenges ahead. He expressed hope that cooperation between Parliament and the government would lead to positive outcomes, especially regarding infrastructure development.

Upcoming sessions will tackle pressing issues such as unemployment, housing, and Bahrain’s economic trajectory, along with reforms in health, education, and the labour market.

Salman also emphasised the need to address regional developments and protect Bahrain from external pressures, highlighting ongoing collaboration between Parliament and the government on key initiatives, including a priority support scheme nearing finalisation.

Dynamic developments

The reopening of Parliament marks the beginning of a session poised for dynamic developments. With leadership contests intensifying amid a backdrop of pressing economic challenges, the next few weeks will be crucial in determining how effectively Parliament can respond to the needs of the nation.

As MPs grapple with the directives outlined in the King’s address, the ability to navigate these challenges will play a vital role in shaping Bahrain’s legislative future.