MPs yesterday unanimously approved an urgent proposal to suspend a reported decision to raise municipal fees on electricity and water bills from BD2 to BD5 per month.
The fast-tracked motion, submitted by five MPs led by Strategic Thinking Bloc spokesman Khalid Bu Onk, was passed during Parliament’s weekly session and referred to the Cabinet for urgent review.
The reported fee hike, representing a 150 per cent increase, had sparked alarm across the country, particularly after reports surfaced that the new rates would be implemented from May 1 – including on the primary residences of Bahraini citizens, who had previously enjoyed the BD2 reduced rates.
In a heated session, several MPs held up their phones showing messages from constituents that the increased fee had already begun appearing in utility bill notices.
This prompted widespread calls for immediate parliamentary intervention.
Mr Bu Onk delivered an impassioned plea on the floor.
“The people can barely make it through the month as it is, with the weight of bills and fees growing heavier,” he said.
“We’re now talking about adding BD3 more every single month? That’s not a small amount – that’s groceries, school expenses, even transportation.”
He added that MPs are increasingly being approached by constituents who are unable to pay for even basic needs.
“We are not just legislators, we’ve become the last financial resort for some citizens. People come to us every month seeking a bit of cash to cover food or rent. How can we justify another increase?”
Mr Bu Onk also questioned the performance of the municipal services that the fee supposedly funds.
“We’re paying more, but getting less. Even rubbish bags are being rationed to one bundle per month, and they disappear from vending machines the moment they’re restocked,” he said.
“This isn’t just about money; it’s about trust in public services.”
He also argued that cleanliness and sanitation should remain a public responsibility.
“The BD2 is more than enough. Cleanliness is not a luxury; it’s a core government duty.”
Parliament Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam took a firm position in defence of the citizens, vowing to raise the matter personally with the Cabinet.
“Let me be very clear; I reject any fee hike on citizens,” he stated.
“We, in Parliament, are united in opposing unnecessary financial pressure on the people, especially under current economic conditions. This is a red line.”
He said Parliament would not stand idle if the executive branch attempted to implement the fee increase without clear justification or public engagement.
“We demand transparency and logic behind such decisions. Until then, we stand with the people.”
Meanwhile, Eman Shuwaiter intervened to share that she had contacted Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak via WhatsApp in real time.
According to her, the minister responded that no official fee hike had been implemented and that a new municipal fee system was only under testing to evaluate its efficiency.
The minister’s message, however, contradicted what citizens were already seeing in bills, leading to further calls from MPs for greater clarity and accountability.
“Parliament’s swift and unanimous action reflects growing pressure on legislators to push back against unpopular administrative measures – especially those that directly affect citizens’ wallets,” said Zainab Abdulamir.
“The timing is critical, as Bahrainis continue to face inflation, housing costs and increased utility consumption during the warmer months.
“While the government has yet to formally respond to Parliament’s motion, the overwhelming vote puts those responsible under pressure to either withdraw or clarify the decision before public dissatisfaction escalates further.
“This is not just a matter of BD3. It’s about whether the government listens to the people or not.”
mohammed@gdnmdia.bh
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