Bahrain's 40 newly-elected MPs gathered at the National Assembly Complex yesterday for an Open House, where they were briefed on the inner workings of Parliament before they officially take their seats in the chamber next month.
The legislators also shared their vision for the country’s future, stressing the need to focus on increasing citizens’ pensions and salaries to improve their living standards, and tackling unemployment.
The MPs were briefed on their duties, rights and powers besides salary, allowances and privileges, including health insurance for themselves and their families.
Ahmed Al Musallam, who stormed to victory in the first round of National Elections on November 12 in Muharraq Governorate constituency eight (Hidd) with 7,711 votes, said MPs needed to draw up a clear blueprint for the country’s development.
“People are waiting to see significant changes to their living standards and we need to have a plan,” said Mr Al Musallam, who is seeking election as Parliament Speaker.
“We need to focus on the country’s development while also pledging to resolve problems, including unemployment and low wages for citizens.
“We still have to learn how to work together and until Parliament officially opens, intensive workshops are being held every day to give us more insight on legislative procedures.”
Parliament will hold workshops from Sunday until the official opening of the National Assembly, the date of which is expected to be announced soon.
Mohammed Al Olaiwy, who represents Muharraq Governorate constituency three (middle Muharraq/Al Binali) and parts of Busaiteen, claimed he would set aside BD750 from his salary every month to help citizens in his area.
“I am here to serve people and am allocating BD750 from my monthly salary for my area residents,” he said.
“I just want to do my best over the next four years and come up with new legislation that will improve living standards of citizens, who have been hit hard by unemployment, low wages and inflation.”
Hanan Fardan, who represents Northern Governorate constituency 12 (Malkiya, Karzakan and Al Louzy Housing), said MPs should stand united from day one.
“People expect a lot from us and we need to come up with concrete plans and innovative ideas that give priority to citizens’ welfare,” he said.
“Inflation remains a concern and we need to focus on it as we debate more topics of public interest in the coming days.”
Parliament secretary general Rashid Bunajma gave a presentation to MPs during the Open House yesterday.
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