The upper chamber of the National Assembly made a surplus of BD160,000 last year, according to the Shura Council’s first vice-chairman Jamal Fakhro.
The council’s 2024 closing financial statement, audited by the National Audit Office (NAO), was unanimously approved during its weekly session yesterday.
Mr Fakhro pointed out that while a BD149,000 deficit was initially reported, it was a non-cash accounting entry due to asset depreciation.
“In reality, the council achieved a cash surplus of BD160,000 when considering government support, spending efficiency and investment returns.
“Moreover, the NAO had no remarks on the council’s performance or financial procedures.”
The report affirmed that the council’s financial data accurately reflected its financial position, operations and cash flow, in compliance with international financial reporting standards and local regulations.
Shura’s financial and economic affairs committee rapporteur Dr Anwar Al Sadah confirmed the secretariat-general had professionally complied with international accounting standards and the financial statements presented a fair and accurate view of the council’s financial status as of December 31, 2024.
“The audit was conducted in accordance with Decree Law No 16 of 2002 concerning the NAO and in line with international oversight standards from the INTOSAI organisation.”
He praised the secretariat-general for its discipline in managing expenditures and avoiding budget overruns, noting that these efforts resulted in a surplus reserve that could be utilised for future projects without affecting ongoing programmes.
Dr Al Sadah noted the council’s final accounts demonstrated ‘high financial management efficiency’, through prudent handling of fixed assets, collection of outstanding dues and enhanced self-generated revenues.
“The budget estimates were accurate, reflecting a well-implemented financial policy in line with international standards,” he said.
Shura’s financial and economic affairs committee chairman Khalid Al Maskati lauded the modernised and strategic management approach of the secretariat-general.
“We affirm that the secretariat-general has moved beyond traditional work models, fostering innovation and sustainability across projects under its comprehensive 2024–2026 strategy,” said Mr Al Maskati.
“Optimal resource utilisation has supported the council’s long-term vision.
“The Shura Council was declared the Arab’s best in digital transformation and 13th globally. We won other accolades in building design and management, and astonishingly trained around 1,500 individuals from Bahrain and abroad.
“Shura’s programmes are set for an elevation through proper spending and futuristic vision.”
Shura member Fouad Al Haji stressed the significance of the secretariat’s full compliance with international accounting standards and its successful budget control.
“This makes the Shura Council a role model for all ministries, agencies, and government bodies,” he said.
“The development within the council – administrative, technical and consultative – demonstrates a commitment to enhancing legislative output. This achievement is powered by our professional national cadres.”
Meanwhile, Shura Council members were notified about 15 reports on foreign participations that include parliamentary meetings in Tehran, Geneva, Baku, Abu Dhabi, Antalya, Baghdad and Luanda.
Shura Council Chairman Ali Saleh Al Saleh said 58 reports were available and would be divided among schedules until the term ends next month.
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