A set of 10 strategic recommendations aimed at strengthening government accountability, enhancing financial efficiency, and improving labour market outcomes will be presented during Parliament session on Tuesday.
The recommendations have been put forward by the financial and economic affairs committee following a detailed review of government responses to observations in the National Audit Report last year as well as broader fiscal performances.
The committee called on the government to continue reducing public debt without compromising citizens’ gains, and to expedite the passage of a dedicated public debt law.
Members noted that public debt had reached approximately BD19.3 billion by the end of 2024, an eight per cent increase from the prior year, equating to about 110 per cent of GDP, up from 107pc in 2023.
It urged the government to study the possibility of applying Bahrainisation quota across commercial establishments as a whole – rather than at the individual branch level. This reform aims to unlock employment opportunities for Bahrainis in establishments currently exempt from national workforce requirements due to fragmentation of branches.
The government was also asked to reinforce compliance with the Civil Service Law, including setting clear timelines for replacing expatriate employees with qualified Bahraini nationals where appropriate.
The members recommended that the Finance and National Economy Ministry continue guiding ministries to manage revenues and expenditures efficiently within allocated budgets, and to study the reasons behind low project spending rates – a step seen as vital for improving budget utilisation.
Finally, the panel stressed the importance of internal oversight systems, deterrent penalties, and follow‑up on previously reported audit observations.
MPs were urged to consider government responses to audit findings and use oversight tools where appropriate to hold officials accountable.
The government was also encouraged to address recurring audit observations and monitor the extent of interaction and corrective action by ministries and entities.
“We have reached a point where constructive collaboration between the legislative and executive branches is essential to ensure transparency, accountability and prudent public administration,” committee chairman MP Ahmed Al Salloom said.
“These recommendations are not adversarial – they are forward‑looking measures designed to support sustainable governance.
“Addressing recurring issues year after year diminishes public confidence. It’s critical that responses translate into real change.
“These recommendations reflect our commitment to constructive parliamentary oversight. We look forward to working with the government to ensure they are implemented effectively for the benefit of the kingdom and its citizens.”
MPs are also set to symbolically vote to reject the state’s 2024 closing financial statement.
The move has been an annual occurrence to push the government into stronger financial governance.
Also appearing during the session, Social Development Minister Osama Al Alawi will respond verbally to three parliamentary questions directed by MPs on social welfare spending and policies.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
&uuid=(email))