A top minister yesterday strongly dismissed as “inaccurate and misleading” claims that the government was shirking its constitutional duties.
Speaking during Parliament’s review of 40 official responses to legislative proposals, Parliament and Shura Council Affairs Minister Ghanim Al Buainain reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to its responsibilities.
“The government cannot, and does not, absolve itself of its constitutional obligations; just as Parliament cannot dismiss its own. This is a fundamental principle that is not up for debate,” he said.
His comments came in response to growing parliamentary concerns, particularly surrounding proposals for autism support services.
Mr Al Buainain noted that several MPs had submitted nearly identical motions regarding autism centres in Bahrain’s four governorates, reflecting a lack of co-ordination in proposal submissions.
“Repetition weakens parliamentary impact,” he said, adding that the government continues to support autism care, including a dedicated annual budget of BD1.2 million for the Comprehensive Disability Centre.
He also pointed to broader efforts in education and social protection, highlighting inclusive education programmes for students with disabilities and legal frameworks that safeguard the rights of people with disabilities in healthcare, employment and education.
Meanwhile, several MPs voices concerns over key public services.
Dr Ali Al Nuaimi revealed that two proposals he submitted have gained government traction.
A primary and intermediate girls’ school in Wadi Al Sail has now been included in the Education Ministry’s development plan. Tender documents have been finalised, with budget discussions underway.
The second proposal called for specialist cancer hospital in the Southern Governorate, in response to rising national cancer rates.
Dr Mariam Al Dhaen called for reconsidering a rejected proposal to establish a community event hall in Isa Town.
A proposal for a kidney dialysis centre in Isa Town also resurfaced.
Dr Al Dhaen emphasised that proximity to such a centre is crucial for patients who undergo treatment multiple times per week.
MPs also pushed for decentralised housing offices, arguing that digital services, while vital, cannot replace face-to-face assistance, especially for senior citizens.
“A simple local housing office can dramatically improve access and reduce stress for applicants,” noted Khalid Bu Onk, suggesting mobile or rotational setups within municipal facilities.
Services committee chairman Mamdooh Al Saleh said that the government has agreed to spend BD1.2 million on infrastructure work for 116 residential plots in Daih’s Block 422 following a parliamentary proposal.
Jalal Kadhem Al Mahfoodh revealed that seven Bahraini fishermen arrested on October 10 for trespassing into Qatari waters have been released following ministerial intervention.
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