Member of Parliament for the Central Governorate of Bahrain, HE Mohamed Hussain Al Janahi, exclusively spoke to Bahrain This Month in a wide-ranging discussion which includes his motivations for entering politics, legislative priorities and his vision for the future of the Kingdom.
Member of Parliament for the Central Governorate of Bahrain, HE Mohamed Hussain Al Janahi, exclusively spoke to Bahrain This Month in a wide-ranging discussion which includes his motivations for entering politics, legislative priorities and his vision for the future of the Kingdom.
What inspired you to enter politics and what do you see as your primary mission?
After 32 years working, eventually reaching head of protocol PR at the Ministry of Justice and Islamic Affairs, I retired. This was in 2022, and I found myself with a lot of time. To be honest, I never thought to go into politics in my life! Then I suddenly got the urge and three days before the closing of nominees for election, I threw my hat in the ring and ended up being elected! I won the election for the area of Manama that includes Hoora, Gudaibiya, and the Diplomatic Area. This is the biggest constituency in Bahrain, with all the main companies, banks and hotels under my jurisdiction.
Bahrain is undergoing significant economic reforms. What initiatives are you supporting to boost economic growth and diversification?
Bahrain is improving its economy, although it faced difficulties a couple of years back during the Covid-19 pandemic. Now, under the leadership of HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, there is a push to improve Bahrain’s economy by bringing more companies and banks to the country. We also have a lot of activities like Formula 1 and the Bahrain Airshow which brings attention to the country. Furthermore, I believe there are around 10 major new hotels expected to open soon, leading to Bahrain boosting its standing in the GCC economy.
What measures are being taken to address youth unemployment in Bahrain, and how do you envision creating more job opportunities for young people?
Youth unemployment is a big problem in Bahrain. In many households, you may find more than one or two unemployed individuals, which makes it difficult for parents, especially when they are retired. The government is trying its best to address this through the Ministry of Labour. As an MP, I announced recently that I would take care of employing Bahrainis by inviting around 40 companies to an event where job seekers can come with their CVs and apply.
Can you discuss any upcoming reforms in the education sector and how they aim to improve the quality of education in Bahrain?
Education in Bahrain has vastly improved in the past decade or so. We now have various colleges, including business and catering, and multiple internationally-regarded universities, which have improved the education of Bahrainis significantly. In fact, Bahrain was the first in the Gulf to have such an educational system.
What are the current challenges facing Bahrain’s healthcare system, and what steps are being taken to enhance healthcare services and accessibility?
The government always prioritises health, alongside education and housing. We have many hospitals across different towns and cities, the most recent one being King Hamad University Hospital (KHUH) in Muharraq. We have facilities like BDF Hospital and Salmaniya, which is one of the founding public hospitals in the GCC. Private hospitals have also increased, which wasn’t the case 20 to 30 years ago. Earlier, we used to take patients abroad for surgeries, but now we have good doctors and hospitals locally.
How is the Parliament working towards advancing women’s rights and promoting gender equality in Bahrain?
Women in Bahrain occupy a significant space in society, contributing equally. The Kingdom has provided the first female nurse and judge in the Gulf and HRH Shaikha Sabeeka chairs the Supreme Council for Women, which supports and champions Bahraini women. We now have a plethora of females in leadership roles, including the chairwomen of banks and ministers, reflecting the progress in gender equality.
What is your stance on environmental issues, and what policies are you advocating for to address climate change and promote sustainability in Bahrain?
Climate change is a global issue, and islands and coastal areas are at risk. Bahrain is lucky to be in the Gulf, but we must take protective measures. All GCC countries are trying to address climate issues, including cloud seeding to induce rain.
How do you view Bahrain’s current foreign relations, particularly with neighbouring countries, and what are your priorities in terms of international diplomacy?
Bahrain, since the 1980s, has been a proud member of the GCC, a union of six countries. We hope to see a single currency for the GCC, which would strengthen our economic position globally. The unity and collective economy would be beneficial for all member countries.
What efforts are being made to engage more effectively with the public and your constituents?
HM King Hamad established the Parliament in 2001, allowing freedom of speech and changing many rules to benefit Bahrainis. The Parliament is still young compared to others globally, but we strive to represent the voices of Bahrainis in every area and bring their concerns to the government.
When you’re not serving your constituents, what are your hobbies and passions?
Since I was 15 years old, I have been collecting stamps. I joined the Bahrain Philatelic Stamp Society in 1980, and I was the youngest collector then. Besides stamps, I collect paper money, documents, watches, cameras, stones and more. I have rare envelopes from as far back as 1884, and the first local stamp issued in 1953. My passion extends to art and carving, participating in national events with my works.
Is there anything more you would like to add?
I appreciate this opportunity to speak to your esteemed magazine! I would like to put on record that I am committed to working tirelessly for Bahrain’s progress and ensuring every citizen has the chance to succeed.
