The political crisis has intensified in Kuwait, one of the United Arab Emirates. In this case, Amir Sheikh Mishal, Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, has shown action by dissolving the newly elected National Assembly of Kuwait. Addressing the nation, he announced the dissolution of Parliament.
He also announced the cancellation of the constitutional clauses requiring fresh elections for four years. The people of the country are shocked by his announcement.
He said that such a difficult decision was taken to save Kuwait from an unprecedented crisis and to move the country towards development. Amir has also ordered to set up a committee to revise the Constitution enacted in 1962, which has not been amended.
According to the media, the Amir thinks that there is some kind of malpractice in the selection of the next prince of Kuwait. He is also said to suspect a foreign conspiracy in the election of the Kuwaiti prince.
Aamir has also promised that “no one is above the law… the current social security laws will be reviewed”. Continuing, he said that the judiciary and the security system are the two main factors for the progress of the country. Respect for security officials means respect for the governing body of the country. Amir shouted that we will not allow anything to affect their dignity.
The country is going through difficult times. We have to overcome the present situation. Constitutional provisions are being violated in the country. He also accused some people of trying to usurp the Amir’s powers. Activities against the interests of the country are not allowed. No one has the power to waste public money. Aamir said that no one is above the law and action will be taken against those in public who commit wrongdoing.
A new National Assembly was elected on 4 April. Most of the opposition MPs won the elections. This fueled the existing unrest with the government. Abrogation of sections of the constitution requiring elections is seen as a sign that new elections will not take place.
This is the third time that constitutional provisions of the country have been suspended. Earlier in 1976 the constitution was suspended for five years and in 1986 for six years. Kuwait was the first Gulf country to adopt a parliamentary democracy by promulgating a constitution in 1962. Elected MPs in Kuwait have the power to question and remove members of the government.
But it is also noteworthy that in the last twenty years there have been serious conflicts between the Kuwaiti government and the country’s parliament.
