Parliament backs 10-year utility bill instalments

TDT | Manama

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Ten-year instalments for overdue utility bills won urgent parliamentary backing yesterday, in a recommendation urging the ministry to lift the current four-year cap.

The non-binding move was proposed by MP Abdulhakim Al Sheno with four colleagues, asks the Ministry of Electricity and Water to offer longer repayment plans to citizens’ homes and to keep power on where settlements are in place.

“Electricity and water bills can pile up to the point that families have no choice but to pay by instalments; in many cases an heir pays the bill simply to keep services running without interruption,” Al Sheno said.

Foundation

He cited Article 5(a) of the Constitution, which sets the family as the foundation of society, and argued that policy should protect household stability and avoid extra costs.

He also urged practical steps that trim bills, including easier rooftop solar installation and steady advice on peak hours, noting that summer charges often jump compared with other months.

“The ministry should put forward more solutions that serve citizens and avoid resorting to cutting off electricity,” he said, adding that a 10-year schedule would help households settle what they owe over time.

Approach

Under the approach outlined, arrears would be repaid on an agreed timetable between the ministry and the customer until the full amount is cleared.

It is now for the government and the ministry to decide whether and how to carry the recommendation into effect.