The State Great Hural (Parliament) opened its eighth and last session before the upcoming election this week, under sharp rebuke from President N.Enkhbayar.

With less than two thirds of parliamentarians present for Monday’s (April 7) first day of sitting, Enkhbayar’s criticism that parliament was “slow” and “inefficient” in creating laws gained fervor.

This session will see over 40 draft laws discussed, including draft amendments to minerals law as top priority.

“This session has inevitable responsibility to approve draft amendments to minerals law in the efforts to build transparency, stable legal environment for potential foreign and domestic investors and other interest parties,” said D.Lundeejantsan, Speaker of Parliament.

On March 25, an irregular session to discuss the draft changes ended after a “boycott” by an opposition force.

Enkhbayar blamed the Parliament for its slow progress approving sound and favorable legal environment for foreign investors in the mining industry, a key sector of the economy.

He also criticized immoral ethics of certain members involved in police investigation and court proceedings.

The session will also approve last year’s budget execution, a draft law on alcohol production, sales and import, a law on public service, a law on free access to information, as well as an election date and its budget frame.

The UB Post

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