MPs Set to Debate Housing Rule That No Longer Exists

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

MPs are set to debate whether a husband’s housing application should be discarded if his wife inherits property, despite the rule being scrapped six months ago.

In a statement yesterday, the housing ministry clarified that the push, led by MP Mohsen Al Asbool, is calling for a change that has already been made.

Property
The Cabinet approved the removal of the rule last August, allowing families to retain their housing applications even if the wife inherits property.

“The debate in Parliament is about a policy that no longer exists,” the ministry said. “The Cabinet’s decision took effect in August last year, ensuring families aren’t penalized because of an inheritance.”

Some MPs had taken issue with the ministry’s earlier written response, seeing it as pushback against the idea.

Ruling
However, the ministry stressed that its stance had been formed before the Cabinet made its ruling. “Our previous position was based on the rules at the time. Since the decision was made, the policy has been in place, and applications have been processed accordingly,” it explained.

The ministry also highlighted other adjustments to housing rules aimed at expanding access, including changes to how allowances are counted when determining eligibility. “We’ve updated the way income is assessed. Fixed allowances above BD100 are now included, while other allowances are optional for applicants to count,” it said.

Additionally, the system for nomination certificates for homeownership services has been adjusted to provide applicants with more security. “People won’t lose their spot due to later changes in income rules,” the statement added.

Despite these updates, Parliament is still set to debate the MPs’ proposal on Tuesday, raising questions about why the issue is even up for debate.