The Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments, in coordination with the Supreme Council of the Judiciary, the Public Prosecution, and the Ministry of Interior, announced the implementation of video conferencing technology in criminal courts. Designated court facilities have also been approved for the attendance of defendants, operating under the Ministry.
Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa, Deputy President of the Supreme Council of the Judiciary and President of the Court of Cassation; Dr. Ali bin Fadhl Al Buainain, Attorney General; and Nawaf bin Mohammed Al Maawda, Minister of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments, conducted an inspection visit to one of the courtrooms at the Ministry to review the digital mechanism and ensure the integrity of all procedures.
These designated facilities are considered a legal extension of the courtroom, with all legal safeguards for defendants fully upheld. These include public hearings, the presence of a Public Prosecution representative, and the option for defence counsel to attend either at these facilities or in the main courtroom at the Ministry.
The adoption of video conferencing in criminal courts aims to facilitate litigation procedures for inmates, reduce the need for their transfer to court premises, and ensure that all legal rights and guarantees remain fully protected.