As Bahrain’s Council of Representatives resumes its sessions for the final year of the sixth legislative term, attention turns to what has been achieved so far and what remains to be done before voters head to the polls in 2026. Over the past three years, the Parliament has been more vocal, more diverse, and, in many ways, more assertive than in previous terms, a reflection of the natural evolution of Bahrain’s parliamentary experience since its inception two decades ago.
This term has been marked by a broader representation of voices, both generational and gender-based. Nearly one-fifth of the current members are young Bahrainis, bringing fresh perspectives and an eagerness to challenge traditional ways of doing politics. The historic success of women in the 2022 elections, which witnessed eight female MPs winning seats, has added another layer of diversity to parliamentary debates. This stronger presence of women has not only enriched discussions but has also amplified conversations around social development, public health, and support for vulnerable groups, from retirees and the elderly to low-income families.
Legislative progress
The past three years have seen meaningful legislative progress. Parliament has approved significant amendments to the unemployment insurance law, raising benefits to provide better support for jobseekers, particularly graduates. It has also been instrumental in discussions and collaboration with the executive authority to tackle unemployment, a priority issue for Bahrainis families. The Ministry of Labour’s announcement that over 900 Bahrainis were employed in the first half of 2025 is widely seen as a result of sustained engagement between MPs and government officials. At the same time, debates over housing, wage protection, and public welfare have underscored the parliament’s commitment to addressing everyday concerns.
The sixth legislative term has been among the most productive in Bahrain’s history. Since the start of this term, the Parliament has taken action on 762 legislative items, a mix of bills, decrees, and proposals, with the third session alone tackling over 300 topics, making it the most active year so far. This heightened activity reflects not only a willingness to engage with pressing national issues but also an increased level of coordination with government bodies to ensure that legislative initiatives translate into tangible results for citizens.
Fluctuating public opinion
Despite its accomplishments, the parliament has not been immune to criticism. Public opinion has fluctuated sharply, as is natural in any democracy where expectations run high. Among the common complaints is the repetitiveness of debates, with some sessions revisiting the same topics without introducing new ideas or actionable plans. Others point to a lack of strategic, long-term policymaking, with MPs sometimes focusing more on responding to immediate headlines than on shaping sustainable policies for the future. There is also a perception that visibility often outweighs substance, with some members relying on loud rhetoric as a promotional tool ahead of the 2026 elections, rather than demonstrating genuine policy expertise or delivering results.
These criticisms, however, should be seen in the context of a parliament that is still growing into its role. Constructive oversight, effective policymaking, and strong collaboration with the executive branch take time to mature. What is clear is that the Bahraini public is becoming more engaged and more discerning, increasingly able to distinguish between MPs who quietly but effectively deliver for their constituencies and those whose contributions are less substantive.
The 2026 elections
Looking ahead, the final year of this term will likely be defined by two parallel dynamics: a continued push to address the issues that matter most, jobs, housing, and the rising cost of living and the gradual buildup to an election season where MPs will seek to solidify their records and their profiles. If this year can strike the right balance between substance and visibility, Bahrain’s parliament will enter the next election not only with a strong legislative record but also with renewed credibility in the eyes of the public.
Criticism of the Council of Representatives is healthy and, at times, necessary. But what cannot be denied is the trajectory of progress. Bahrain’s parliamentary system, while imperfect, is evolving with every term, becoming more diverse, more assertive, and increasingly reflective of the society it represents. The challenge for the coming year is clear, to build on this evolution, to deliver real results for citizens, and to ensure that the institution continues to grow in maturity and effectiveness as Bahrain moves toward its next democratic milestone.
Profiles of Key MPs
The following section highlights MPs who have distinguished themselves during the sixth legislative term. These profiles include examples of their notable contributions, key issues championed, and visible engagement in debates or legislation.
Leadership and Institutional Roles
• Ahmed Al-Musallam (Speaker) – Has guided the chamber with steady leadership, ensuring productive sessions and collaboration with the executive branch.
He also steered parliament toward becoming the first in the region to secure ISO environmental certification, advancing digital transformation and sustainability within institutional operations.
• Abdulnabi Salman (First Deputy Speaker) – A strong voice in legislative debates with balanced positions on economic and social issues.
Actively promotes collaborative legislative approaches and supports constructive solutions to economic and labor market challenges.
• Ahmed Qarata (Second Deputy Speaker) – Consistent and assertive, active in economic and social policy debates with a focus on practical, people-centered solutions.
He has been vocal on unemployment and housing issues, regularly advocating for pragmatic reforms that resonate with constituents.
• Mahmood Fardan – Ensures laws are clear and effective, leading legislative reviews with precision.
Played an important role in vetting critical legal frameworks to align parliamentary proposals with Bahrain’s broader development vision.
• Jalila Alawi – Committed to improving public services and infrastructure.
Often addresses gaps in government service delivery and pushes for solutions that directly enhance the quality of life for citizens.
• Zainab Abdulamir – Highly engaged and respected for inclusive parliamentary discussions.
Known for driving debates on social issues, promoting constructive dialogue around policies affecting women and families.
• Dr. Hisham Al-Asheeri – Advances forward-looking legislative ideas with creative solutions.
Supports the integration of innovative strategies in policymaking to address emerging challenges in technology and education.
High Legislative Activity
• Maryam Al-Dhaen – Active and visible, tackling economic, social, and youth-related concerns with a results-oriented approach.
She has also championed parliamentary diplomacy and has been an advocate for recognizing Bahrain’s economic achievements, including growth in the non-oil sector.
• Khalid Buanaq – Practical in economic debates and reform advocacy.
Proposed a GCC-wide AI strategy to boost competitiveness and effectively pushed back against utility fee increases, showcasing strong consumer advocacy.
• Mohammed Al-Olaiwi – Respected for housing and community-focused action.
Advocated for stronger housing regulations to protect neighborhoods and demonstrated principle-driven leadership by resigning from a housing committee over accountability concerns.
• Hassan Ibrahim Hassan – Deeply connected with constituents on housing, welfare, and youth issues.
Has consistently highlighted the importance of balanced policies to support vulnerable groups while promoting opportunities for young Bahrainis.
• Ahmed Al-Saloom – Energetic economic reformer supporting small businesses and innovation.
Pushed for stronger entrepreneurial ecosystems and legislation to position Bahrain as a regional hub for technology and innovation.
Active Voices
• Abdullah Al-Rumaihi – Assertive and vocal, known for strong debates on economic policy and community services.
Frequently addresses pressing issues raised by constituents, earning a reputation for being highly responsive and visible.
• Mamdouh Al-Saleh – Regularly raises critical, constituency-relevant issues in detailed parliamentary debates.
Engages deeply in discussions on housing, social equity, and other key policies that directly impact citizens’ lives.
• Jalal Kadhem Hasan – Articulate and constructive, addressing social and economic challenges with practical solutions in sessions.
Recognized for engaging in thoughtful, balanced debates that connect with the realities faced by everyday Bahrainis.