Legislative Council
The Legislative Council (LegCo) is Brunei Darussalam’s Parliament, acting as the official arena for airing and resolving issues or problems within the country. First established in 1959, the council held a total of 32 meetings until it was frozen in 1984 after the country resumed independence. In 2004, the LegCo was revived and the council continued to handle internal issues and concerns over the next 12 years.
In 2016, the Department of the Councils of State under the Prime Minister’s Office announced the dissolution of the LegCo. His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam commanded the re-establishment of LegCo the following year. In accordance with Section 49 of the Brunei Constitution of 1959, each LegCo member shall take their oath or sworn-in and recite their declaration in the presence of the LegCo Speaker prior to taking up their responsibilities and chairs.
Besides the annual expenditure, the LegCo meetings also discuss relevant and significant issues for the benefit of the people in a consultation manner carried out harmoniously.
Judiciary System
Brunei Darussalam’s legal system implements the English Common Law and the Islam-ordained Syariah Law simultaneously to preside over the country’s residents. The two laws are overseen by the Supreme Court and coexist to administer a system that is well-rounded and fair towards the nation.
The Attorney General’s Chambers is responsible for overseeing the execution of the laws and enacting any amendments to existing acts. The Attorney General is the principal legal adviser to the government and is also responsible for the drafting of legislation. In carrying out the task of legislative drafting, the Attorney General’s Chambers works closely with the relevant ministries and departments.
To ensure a thorough and meticulous implementation of the Syariah Law, a group of specialists spearheaded by the Chief Syar’ie Judge oversees the process.