THE Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) has detailed the regulatory framework for its upcoming 31st term elections, emphasising a streamlined “voter journey” and strict adherence to legal transparency.
Elections Committee chairman Abbas Abdulmohsen Radhi addressed candidates during an introductory meeting, describing the committee as an “organisational tool” designed to ensure a smooth transition for the business community.
The elections are scheduled to take place on March 28 at Exhibition World Bahrain in Sakhir.
As the countdown to the polls continues, 25 candidates have officially submitted their nomination papers to date. Potential candidates have until the deadline of Monday to finalise their entries for the 31st term.
A primary focus of the committee is simplifying the voter experience. While a valid physical Identity Card (CPR) or Passport remains the standard requirement, Mr Radhi revealed that the committee is currently consulting with legal experts regarding digital identification.
“A key point for consultation is the form of identification required,” Mr Radhi said. “A question has been raised regarding digital versions: Do we accept the ID as displayed on a smartphone? We want to avoid delays caused by sending individuals home to retrieve physical documents.”
A final ruling on the acceptance of digital IDs and driving licences is expected in the next session following a legal review.
According to the Chamber Law (Decree-Law No. 48 of 2012), proxy voting is strictly prohibited. Only the owner of a sole proprietorship or the authorised legal representative of a member company may cast a ballot.
Sole proprietorships: Owners are not required to present an authorisation letter to vote.
Multiple representatives: If a member company has more than one legal representative, they must select one individual from among themselves and provide an official authorisation letter.
The electoral process will run from 8am to 10pm. If voters are still inside the polling station at closing time, the chairman confirmed that voting will continue until the last person present has cast their ballot.
To ensure the integrity of the vote, the committee has issued specific balloting instructions:
Stationery: Only designated pens provided within the polling booths are to be used.
Selection: Voters may select up to 18 candidates. Any ballot featuring more than 18 selections will be declared invalid.
Handling: Voters are advised not to fold their papers before depositing them to avoid ink transfers that could void the vote.
The counting process will be held in full view of the public, monitored via on-site screens and a live stream to ensure complete transparency. The layout of the polling centre has been designed to facilitate a one-way flow, moving from registration in Hall 1 to a dedicated waiting area, and finally to the polling hall.
“We are all partners in this process,” Mr Radhi concluded. “Our goal is a well-organised election day that reflects the professionalism of Bahrain’s business sector.”
avinash@gdnmedia.bh
&uuid=(email))