MPs have accused the authorities of preferring naturalised foreign athletes over Bahrainis to compete in international sporting events.
They claimed that the government was directing resources and finances to the ‘wrong people’ rather than spending it on developing local sports facilities and athletes.
The onslaught was led by Parliament’s second deputy Speaker Ahmed Qarata, who accused the authorities of selecting foreign athletes to represent the country.
“Naturalised athletes get to compete under the Bahraini flag only to be found guilty of doping later, this is an embarrassment,” alleged Mr Qarata.
“We have young talented Bahrainis capable of winning global honours. At least 20 citizens can be trained with the money directed to naturalised athletes, and these Bahrainis would make the country proud.”
He made the allegations as Parliament unanimously approved a royal decree issued by His Majesty King Hamad during the National Assembly recess last year to amend the 1975 Supreme Council for Youth and Sports Law.
Mr Qarata was backed by MP Zainab Abdulamir, who also stressed the need to encourage genuine local talents.
Youth Affairs Minister Rawan Tawfiqi, who was present at the session yesterday, said more schemes and activities would be introduced for youngsters.
“My door is open for everyone, including MPs, as we come up with initiatives to develop the youth sector in the country,” she said.
Meanwhile, MPs unanimously approved an urgent proposal to give permanent contracts to Bahrainis working on a temporary basis in ministries and government bodies. The proposal was spearheaded by Dr Abdulhakim Al Sheno.
“There are around 2,000 Bahrainis on temporary jobs and they cannot get loans or visa cards,” he said. “They are living under constant fear of being dismissed or not having their contracts renewed. The government must give them permanent employment.”
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