A LAW ratifying the Mecca Convention on Co-operation among Member States of the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation (OIC) in Combating Corruption was unanimously approved by the Shura Council yesterday.
It marked a significant step in Bahrain’s ongoing efforts to enhance transparency, integrity and international co-ordination against corruption.
The legislation, which had earlier been endorsed by Parliament, was reviewed by the Shura Council’s foreign affairs, defence and national security committee, chaired by Dr Ali Al Romaihi, who confirmed that the agreement aligns fully with Bahrain’s Constitution and existing laws.
The bill will now be referred to His Majesty King Hamad for ratification.
“This agreement represents a new chapter in Bahrain’s ongoing efforts to strengthen international and regional co-operation in the fight against corruption,” said Dr Al Romaihi.
“By ratifying this convention, the kingdom reaffirms its commitment to transparency, integrity and good governance – principles that are central to our legislative and national policies.”
The Mecca Convention, which consists of 23 articles, outlines definitions, objectives and mechanisms to enhance co-ordination among law enforcement agencies across OIC member-states through efficient and rapid exchange of information and investigations to prevent, detect and prosecute corruption-related crimes.
The convention covers offences such as bribery of national and foreign officials, trading in influence and bribery in the private sector. It ensures respect for national sovereignty while enabling voluntary co-operation and secure exchange of intelligence between enforcement agencies.
Dr Al Romaihi also emphasised that the convention imposes no financial obligations on Bahrain.
“This initiative is purely co-operative in nature,” he said.
“It strengthens operational links between law enforcement agencies across the Islamic world without imposing additional financial burdens on the state.”
Committee rapporteur Hamad Al Nuaimi highlighted that ratifying the convention underscores Bahrain’s deep commitment to combating corruption and advancing its legislative framework.
“The ratification confirms Bahrain’s firm dedication to combating corruption, which remains one of the major challenges facing societies and states,” said Mr Al Nuaimi.
“It also supports the kingdom’s efforts to further develop its national legislative system in line with the Constitution, national laws and the objectives of Bahrain’s Vision.”
So far, 23 OIC member-states have signed the convention, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Iraq, Jordan and Pakistan.
Bahrain signed the treaty last year.
Meanwhile, the chamber also debated a draft reply to His Majesty King Hamad’s address at the opening of the fourth National Assembly term last month. The reply panel is headed by first vice-chairman Jamal Fakhro.
Committee rapporteur Hala Fayez was informed about inclusions and changes during the session, which would be made before council chairman Ali Saleh Al Saleh schedules a submission appointment with the King.
Shura members were also notified about three royal decrees issued by His Majesty during the recess, amending the 2014 Traffic Law, the 1976 Penal Code and the 2002 Criminal Procedures Law – already approved by Parliament.
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