Lawmakers Celebrate Parliament’s Role in Serving Citizens

Human rights and public freedoms remain central to parliamentary efforts

TDT | Manama

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Bahraini MPs said parliament had helped protect human rights and public freedoms as they marked the International Day of Parliamentarism on June 30.

Maryam Al Sayegh said Bahrain had made human dignity a national aim under the care of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

She said the King’s care had strengthened parliamentary work as a guard for rights and freedoms, and given Bahraini women a greater role in lawmaking and scrutiny.

Ms Al Sayegh praised His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, saying his support had deepened co-operation between parliament and government and helped turn MPs’ proposals into steps that served citizens.

She said Bahrain had made gains in human rights, with the Council of Representatives playing a central part through laws, scrutiny and work abroad.

‘We will continue in the Council of Representatives to carry out our duty in legislation and scrutiny, drawing strength from the guidance of the wise leadership, so that we remain the voice of the Bahraini people and the shield of their rights,’ she said.

Ahmed Qarata, Second Deputy Speaker of the Council of Representatives, said Bahrain’s legal and development gains had come under the King’s guidance and through work with the government led by the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

He said this year’s theme, ‘Bring Human Rights into Focus’, matched Bahrain’s parliamentary path in law reform, responsible freedoms, human rights, peace, coexistence and public care.

Mr Qarata said the chamber, led by Speaker Ahmed bin Salman Al Musallam, had put forward draft laws, proposals and questions tied to human rights, in line with the constitution, Islamic Sharia, Bahraini customs and international agreements.

Waleed Al Doseri said the King’s care for Bahrain’s democratic path had made parliament a true partner in protecting rights and freedoms, and a voice for citizens.

He said Bahrain had built a full legal system for human rights, while MPs had taken the kingdom’s rights record to world forums and defended its image.

‘Human rights in Bahrain are a daily practice protected by the constitution and the law,’ he said. ‘The Council of Representatives will remain a shield for rights and a defender of human dignity, guided by the wise leadership.’