Shura reviews 49 laws in latest session

Daily Tribune

26-05-2025

Forty-nine legislative items were reviewed by Shura Council during its third regular session of the sixth legislative term, including a draft law that led to a rare joint meeting of both chambers after two failed attempts to reach agreement.
The session, which comprised 29 regular sittings and one extraordinary meeting, also saw members use their questioning powers and introduce a range of new proposals.
Of the 38 draft laws examined, 30 were backed by both chambers and sent to the government to be passed on to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.
Seven were returned to Parliament for reconsideration.
One measure stalled after it was exchanged twice between the chambers, leading to a National Assembly meeting under Article 85 of the Constitution.
Twelve other drafts remain under review in committee.
Three Royal Decrees with the force of law were agreed and referred to Parliament for the purpose of notifying the government.
Another three remained pending when Royal Order No. 14 of 2025 brought the session to a close.
Council members also submitted legislative proposals of their own.
Seven were examined and forwarded to the government. One was rejected and three are still being considered in committee.
The Council considered two reports on final accounts and financial statements.
A further two remain under study by the Financial and Economic Affairs Committee.
Members submitted 23 questions to ministers, covering matters such as finance, employment, health, education, services, environmental issues, and legal affairs.
The responses were received and discussed during the session, touching on policies that continue to attract public attention.