Legislators are seeking to ease the financial burden on the families of deceased Bahraini citizens by waiving outstanding electricity, water, and municipality fees upon the subscriber’s death.
The proposal submitted by a group of MPs led by services committee vice-chairman MP Mohammed Al Olaiwi is set for debate and vote during the weekly Parliament session on Tuesday.
They argue that the current system, which requires heirs to settle unpaid utility and municipal bills from the deceased’s estate, places an additional financial strain on families already dealing with the loss. They also claim that it would prevent disputes among heirs settling the deceased’s liabilities.
“Losing a loved one is already a painful experience,” said Mr Al Olaiwi.
“Families should not have to worry about paying off electricity, water, or municipal bills during such a difficult time,” he stressed.
“This proposal is about compassion and ensuring that citizens are not overburdened with inherited debts.
“Many grieving families are simply unable to pay these debts. A fair system must be in place to support those in need while ensuring the sustainability of public services.”
Meanwhile, Electricity and Water Affairs Minister Yasser Humaidan, who is politically responsible for the Electricity and Water Authority (EWA), reviewed the proposal and raised concerns about its financial and operational impact.
“The EWA does not automatically transfer the deceased’s debts to heirs, except within the limits of the inherited estate,” he said.
“The authority does not require a security deposit on owner-occupied properties, as the property itself guarantees payment even after the owner’s death. Those inheriting the property are expected to settle outstanding bills.
“Waiving debts for all deceased persons, regardless of financial status, would significantly reduce the EWA’s revenue, impacting service quality.
“Currently, the EWA and the Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry write off two years’ worth of unpaid bills for low-income deceased citizens registered with the Social Development Ministry.
“Other cases are reviewed on a case-by-case basis in co-ordination with the ministry.”
He said implementing the proposal could disrupt Bahrain’s fiscal balancing programme, which requires the EWA to improve efficiency and ensure financial sustainability.
“The authority purchases electricity and water from the private sector and is obliged to settle payments within 42 days. Without sufficient revenue, the EWA would struggle to cover these costs, potentially affecting service quality for all consumers,” he explained.
&uuid=(email))