The number of Shoura Council members is expected to be increased from the present 150 to 180 in its next session, according sources. The number of female advisers too is expected to increase from six to 11, the sources said. The current six adivors are Dr. Omaimah Al-Jalahmah, Dr. Nihad Al-Jashi, Dr. Bahijah Azzi, Dr. Wafa Taibah, Dr. Norah Al-Yousif, and Dr. Norah Al-Adwan. The coming Shoura session is likely to see the end of tenure of at least half of the members. The Shoura Council enjoys the same powers as western parliaments. It is entitled to enact laws, oversee the functions of governmental agencies and investigate public cases. The Shoura Council started its sessions with 60 members. But in the next session, the number was increased to 90, then to 120 in the third session. The current number of members is 150. Having been expanded in 1997 and 2001, the council achieved a place in the International Parliamentary Union by the end of 2003. In its new form, the Council has held 845 sessions and issued 1,174 legislations leading to the second year of its fourth term. Shoura Council is headed by a Speaker. The King appoints the Speaker and members of the Council who are Saudi nationals by descent and upbringing, not less than 30 years of age and well known for uprightness and competence. – Okaz __
