Bahrain Updates Penal Code to Strengthen Accountability for Negligence

TDT | Manama

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Decree Amending Laws on Death and Injury by Negligence

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has issued Decree-Law No. (31) of 2025, introducing key amendments to Bahrain’s Penal Code. The move aims to tighten legal accountability for incidents where negligence leads to death or bodily harm. The decree follows a proposal from the Prime Minister and approval by the Cabinet.

Stricter Penalties for Negligent Deaths
The revised Article 342 specifies that anyone whose negligence causes the death of another person may face imprisonment or a fine. Standard penalties include 2 to 5 years in prison or fines ranging from 2,000 to 6,000 Bahraini Dinars.

Death resulting from professional negligence, intoxication, or failure to assist the victim can lead to enhanced penalties.

If multiple deaths occur, imprisonment can extend up to 7 years, with fines up to 10,000 Dinars. Further aggravating circumstances may increase the sentence to 10 years.

Cases under this article are handled by the High Criminal Court, with appeals heard by the Supreme Criminal Court of Appeal.

Enhanced Penalties for Bodily Harm
Article 343 now stipulates that anyone causing bodily harm by negligence may face imprisonment of up to one year or fines up to 200 Dinars.

Permanent injury or harm caused by professional negligence, intoxication, or failure to assist can result in 1 to 5 years in prison or fines up to 8,000 Dinars.

If multiple victims are involved, penalties may rise to 2 to 7 years in prison.

Implementation
The decree requires the Prime Minister and relevant ministers to enforce the law. It will take effect the day after its publication in the Official Gazette.