Manama: His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa issued Decree-Law (31) of 2025, amending certain provisions of the Penal Code, promulgated by Decree-Law (15) of 1976, based on the proposal of the Prime Minister and following the approval of the Cabinet.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the decree-law amends Articles 342 and 343 of the Penal Code, establishing clear penalties for causing death or injury by negligence. Imprisonment ranges from two to ten years and fines from BD2,000 to BD10,000, with higher penalties applied when the offence results from professional or occupational negligence, intoxication, failure to assist the victim when able, permanent disability, or multiple casualties.
Article 342 covers negligent acts causing death, while Article 343 addresses acts causing bodily harm. Cases under these provisions fall under the jurisdiction of the High Criminal Court, with appeals heard by the Higher Criminal Court of Appeal.
The Prime Minister and ministers, each within their capacity, shall implement the provisions of this decree-law, which shall come into effect the day following its publication in the Official Gazette.