THE Cabinet is committed to continue implementing the four-year Government Action Plan 2019-2022 as approved by MPs in January last year, a minister assured yesterday.
Parliament and Shura Council Affairs Minister Ghanim Al Buainain read out a declaration on behalf of the Cabinet at yesterday’s weekly session explaining the situation regarding the appointment of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
“The seat of HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa was vacant due to his sad demise and Prince Salman was present in his capacity as First Deputy Premier at the time when the Government Action Plan was approved in January last year,” said Mr Al Buainain.
“To fill a constitutional loophole Royal Decree 44 was issued to appoint Prince Salman as Prime Minister,” he added.
“We, as a Cabinet, have a declaration, tasked to me to read, that we are committed to continue with the four-year plan.”
National Assembly and Parliament Speaker Fouzia Zainal dedicated her opening remarks to the late HRH Prince Khalifa, struggling to complete them as she broke down in tears.
“Bahrain has lost, with the sad demise of HRH Prince Khalifa, a symbol, an icon and a statesman who dedicated his life to serve the King, nation and people, and the whole of humanity,” said Ms Zainal, reading from a statement prepared on behalf of the MPs.
“Prince Khalifa helped bridge strong co-operation between the legislative and executive arms of authority in the country, which has helped build the country, achieve success in numerous fields, while providing services to everyone in the country,” she added.
“HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, will continue the stride and we will give him every support necessary.”
Several MPs, emotional at times, also paid tributes to the late Prince Khalifa.
Meanwhile, MPs remained unfazed as the fire alarm started ringing in the National Assembly Complex in Gudaibiya.
They continued making their speeches even as a fire brigade rushed to the complex.
However, no further details were available until late last night as to what happened.
All 40 MPs attended the session, either physically present in the chamber or joining the session online.
mohammed@gdn.com.bh
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