MPs have proposed a three-month suspension of pension commutation loan instalments for public sector employees and retirees to help ease financial pressures caused by recent regional tensions.
The proposal put forward by five MPs, led by Mohammed Al Maarafi, calls for a temporary deferment of deductions without any interest or additional fees.
In an explanatory note, the MPs said the move was prompted by ‘exceptional economic circumstances’ that have affected several citizens’ ability to meet financial commitments on time.
Mr Al Maarafi said the aim was to give families ‘breathing space’ during a difficult period.
“This is not about cancelling obligations, but about giving people time,” he said. “Many employees and retirees rely on pension commutation loans to meet essential needs, but the monthly deductions have become an added burden under the current circumstances.”
He stressed that the proposal has been designed as a temporary relief measure that balances the interests of beneficiaries with the financial considerations of the concerned authorities.
“We are asking for a three-month postponement, without penalties, to allow people to rearrange their finances and restore stability at home,” he said.
“This reflects the state’s approach in supporting citizens during exceptional situations.”
According to the latest Social Insurance Organisation report, a total of 636,303 employees were registered with the organisation last year.
Most contributors – 583,958 individuals – were employed in the private sector, while 52,345 worked in the public sector.
Out of the total contributors, 158,645 were Bahrainis with 106,300 (around 67 per cent) working in the private sector and 477,658 being expatriates.
By the end of 2025, the SIO had 86,337 registered pensioners, with 58pc from the private sector and 42pc from the public sector.
Additionally, 25,679 beneficiaries, including children, widows and other dependents, were recorded, with 13,582 in the private sector and 12,097 in the public sector.
&uuid=(email))