A proposal that would make it easier for MPs to move forward with questioning ministers is set to be discussed in Parliament.
At the heart of the draft law is a key change to the voting threshold required for Parliament to deem an interpellation ‘serious’ before it proceeds. Under the current rules, such a decision requires the approval of two-thirds of MPs. The amendment would lower this to a simple majority of members.
Interpellation is a formal parliamentary procedure through which MPs request that the government explain, clarify, or justify its policies, actions, or decisions. Typically presented in written or oral form, this process mandates that the government respond within a specified timeframe.
A second change introduces a new provision allowing interpellations to be debated in a closed session, if requested by the government, the Speaker, or at least 10 MPs. The request itself would be discussed and voted on in a closed setting. If two-thirds of MPs reject the request, the interpellation would proceed in a public session.
The amendments, led by Parliament Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam and four MPs, has won unanimous support from the legislative and legal affairs committee.
The committee has recommended approving amendments to the Decree-Law No 54 of 2002 governing Parliament’s internal regulations.
Mr Al Musallam said the proposal seeks to modernise procedures in line with the constitutional role of Parliament.
“We are introducing a more logical voting progression for oversight decisions, while also providing objective safeguards that allow the council to hold closed discussions when the subject matter requires confidentiality,” he said.
“Our goal is to ensure that parliamentary oversight remains dynamic, effective and responsive to the needs of the legislative process, while preserving the council’s ability to act responsibly when sensitive matters arise.”
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