Understanding Bahrain's Legislative Process: A Guide

The legislative process in Bahrain is a complex one, with the country operating as a constitutional monarchy since 2002. The legislative authority is vested in the King and the National Assembly, which is made up of two parts: the Shura Council (the upper house) and the Council of Representatives (the lower house). The Shura Council has 40 members appointed by the King, while the Council of Representatives has 40 members elected in single-seat constituencies for a four-year term. A law must be approved by both councils and then endorsed by the King to pass. This bicameral system has been criticised for giving the Shura Council, as the unelected chamber, equal or more legislative power than the elected Council of Representatives, allowing the King significant control over legislation.

The role of the King of Bahrain

The King of Bahrain is the monarch and head of state of the Kingdom of Bahrain. The current king, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, has held this position since 2002, when he transitioned Bahrain from an emirate to a kingdom. The king enjoys a wide range of powers, including the ability to appoint the prime minister and the cabinet, hold supreme command over the Defence Force, and chair the Higher Judicial Council.

The King of Bahrain plays a significant role in the country's legislative process. He has the power to appoint the parliament's upper house, known as the Shura Council or Consultative Council, and dissolve its elected lower house, the Council of Representatives. The king's ability to appoint the upper house gives him direct influence over the legislative process, as the Shura Council has the power to veto legislation.

In addition to his legislative powers, the King of Bahrain also wields considerable influence in other areas. He holds the position of Commander-in-Chief of the Bahrain Defence Force and has consistently worked towards modernizing the country's military infrastructure. The king has also shown a commitment to enhancing Bahrain's global reputation and fostering peace and collaboration in the Middle East through his diplomatic initiatives.

King Hamad's reign has been marked by a series of progressive reforms, particularly in the areas of women's rights, economic development, and human rights. He introduced the National Action Charter and the Economic Vision 2030, which aim to diversify Bahrain's economy, reduce its reliance on oil, and promote development and social progress.

The king's personal life and values also play a role in his leadership style. With four wives, twelve children, and a strong focus on family values, he often likens the well-being of Bahrain's citizens to caring for his family. King Hamad's hobbies, such as falconry, fishing, and horseback riding, also showcase his commitment to preserving Bahrain's cultural heritage and customs.

The National Assembly

The first Bahraini parliament lasted for just two legislative meetings from December 1973 to late 1975. However, this initial attempt at an upper house is considered an important milestone, as it expanded participation in the legislative process for all Bahrainis. The current upper house of the Bahraini parliament began its legislative tenure on 16 January 1993, with an inaugural speech by King Khalifa.

The Shura Council

In 1996, the number of members in the Shura Council was increased from 30 to 40 to allow for greater representation of the Bahraini society and to include members with the credentials and expertise needed to help shape the country's future. This change was implemented by Order No. 12 for the year 1996, which also assigned Council members more authority than was enjoyed by the previous Council.

The Council of Representatives

The Speaker of the Council of Representatives chairs the meeting of the National Assembly. In their absence, the Chairman of the Shura Council chairs the meeting. The members of both the Council of Representatives and the Shura Council are required for the quorum, which validates the meeting of the National Assembly and its decisions.

The legislative process

The National Assembly is bicameral, consisting of the lower house, the Chamber of Deputies or Council of Representatives, and the upper house, the Shura Council or Consultative Council. The lower house has 40 members, elected by universal suffrage in single-seat constituencies for a four-year term. The upper house also has 40 members, appointed by the King, with the stated aim of giving a voice to minority communities and technocratic experts.

For a law to be passed, it must be approved by both houses of the National Assembly and then endorsed by the King. If the two councils disagree over a bill twice, the National Assembly convenes, chaired by the Speaker of the Council of Representatives, to discuss the disputed items only. The bill is then passed by a majority vote, and if rejected, it cannot be submitted again in the same legislative session.

The Bahraini legislative process has been subject to various changes over the years, including the introduction of a bicameral system in the early 2000s, which was opposed by some who felt it gave too much power to the unelected upper house and the King. The country's first parliament was dissolved in 1975, but it was restored in 2002 with the implementation of a series of royal decrees.

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