Article 24 of the Saudi Council of Ministers Law

This article states that the Council of Ministers, as the direct executive authority, has full control over matters of execution and administration, and then lists matters included in its executive powers:

1. Overseeing the implementation of laws, regulations and decisions.
2. Establishing and organizing public departments.
3. Following up the implementation of the general development plan.
4. Forming inquiry and investigation committees, as follows:
   • The Council forms committees to inquire into the conduct of the work of ministries and other government bodies, or into a particular case.
   • The committees submit the results of their inquiries to the Council at the time it sets for them.
   • The Council considers the result, and may form investigation committees in light of it, and decide the outcome.

The phrase "its executive powers include the following matters" means that these matters are stated as being among those included in the executive jurisdiction.

The fourth item ends with an important qualification: that this is subject to what laws and regulations provide, so the power of inquiry, investigation and decision is exercised within the limits of existing laws.

Note the sequence in the fourth item: first an inquiry, then the Council's consideration of its result, then the possibility of forming investigation committees, then the decision. The article does not state the composition or procedures of these committees.

It is followed by Article 25, which prevents the Government from contracting a loan except after the approval of the Council of Ministers and the issuance of a royal decree. Anyone who is a party to a government inquiry or investigation may consult a lawyer specializing in administrative cases and government regulations.