A group of MPs has called for calm following disquiet between Parliament and the Muharraq Municipal Council over alleged negligence linked to expatriate ‘bachelor accommodation’ in residential areas.
The appeal was led by Parliament’s public utilities and environment affairs committee chairman MP Mohammed Al Bulooshi, himself a former municipal councillor for several terms, who urged both sides to de-escalate.
“Muharraq and all other councils are respected. What happened in terms of name-and-shame is wrong and shouldn’t be escalated,” he said.
“We respect them, they respect us, so stop attacking them.”
The row erupted after some MPs last week publicly criticised councillors, prompting a firm response from council chairman Abdulaziz Al Naar, who said municipalities had been unfairly blamed for issues beyond their legal mandate.
In a statement, the council stressed that legislative authority rests solely with the Bahrain House of Representatives, while municipal councils are confined to recommendations within their remit.
According to the council, confusion arose during a session focused on the Rent Law under the Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Ministry, attended by Minister Nawaf Al Maawda, where discussion was reportedly conflated with municipal regulations issued by the Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry.
Mr Al Bulooshi described the situation as a misunderstanding rather than a conflict.
“There is a misunderstanding on a particular legislation. It happens, but it shouldn’t become a public war,” he said.
The council also noted it had previously approved a proposal by MP Mohammed Al Rifaie on regulating bachelor housing, stressing its commitment to protecting residential integrity while respecting Parliament’s legislative role.
Both sides have now urged clearer co-ordination and distinction of responsibilities to prevent public confusion and keep the focus on serving residents.
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