Parliament is set to debate a proposal that would allow mothers or grandparents to complete official transactions for minor children while family lawsuits or disputes remain pending before the courts.
The proposal, submitted by MP Jalal Kadhem Al Mahfoodh, has been backed by Parliament’s legislative and legal affairs committee, which cited the need to protect children from administrative harm caused by legal delays.
Under the proposal, the Bahraini or foreign wife, or the grandparents, would be authorised to carry out essential procedures on behalf of minors in government bodies. These include issuing passports, birth certificates, residency documents, and completing transactions related to education, healthcare and other basic rights.
“The intention is simple and humane,” stressed Mr Al Mahfoodh.
“No child should suffer or have their future disrupted because their parents are locked in a legal dispute. This proposal ensures children’s constitutional rights are protected and that urgent procedures are not frozen while court cases take their course.”
He added that the measure does not interfere with judicial authority, but rather addresses a practical gap that families frequently encounter during prolonged litigation.
“Delays in documentation or official procedures can seriously affect a child’s education, medical treatment and overall stability,” he said. “This proposal puts the child’s best interests first.”
Committee chairman Mahmood Fardan said the proposal guarantees children’s rights as enshrined in the Constitution, supports family and psychological stability, and ensures that essential transactions are completed without neglect or delay.
“The courts and Public Prosecution already prioritise the protection of minors,” Mr Fardan said.
“This proposal complements that role by preventing bureaucratic paralysis that can unintentionally harm children.”
The Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Ministry noted that family disputes fall under judicial jurisdiction, highlighting existing safeguards such as mandatory reconciliation procedures, which aim to preserve family unity and protect children from harm.
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