Bahrainisation: MP calls for curbing fictitious jobs

Manama : Close on the heels of the implementation of the Bahrainisation system, MP Mohammed Al Ammadi has urged for curbing the issue of fictitious employment, as it is crucial to the success of the new parallel Bahrainisation system. 

As the new system came into effect earlier this week, businesses that are unable to adhere to Bahrainisation have an alternate solution. Now, they can pay an amount in order to renew visas or to recruit expatriates. 

Before the system came into place, those businesses (not in compliance with the Bahrainisation rules) were not allowed to recruit additional expatriate employees or renew visas. According to Al Ammadi, this will benefit the businesses as well as citizens. 

“We needed a balance, and I hope that we have it now. It is important to stay focused on promoting Bahrainisation while also addressing the issues businesses face,” he opined. 

The system was implemented on Monday following the directives of Prime Minister HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa.

Speaking to DT News here yesterday, Al Ammadi commented that the system would be a success only when the issue of fictitious employment is curtailed. “There is a huge issue of those who use manipulative methods to fool the system. With the new initiative, it is a good chance to eliminate this.”

“Of course, we need to help the businesses. At the same time, I want to stress that Bahrainisation is extremely important. Immediate measures must be taken to track down the companies that use fictitious employment,” he added. 

Meanwhile, Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) Chief Executive Osama Al Absi informed that administrative, technical and legal measures will be taken to curb the issue.