The policies of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad have greatly benefited the country, particularly after it faced several challenges that harmed its economy and reputation both locally and internationally, and impacted society as a whole. As we highlight these policies, it is important to understand that they are still in their early stages and the Council of Ministers need to complete them by amending laws and taking into consideration the draft constitutional amendments by committees with extensive expertise in this area either from within Kuwait or with the assistance of international experts.
This is the only way to ensure the continued development of the country and to realize His Highness the Amir’s vision. Since the nation’s independence, His Highness has lived alongside its Sheikhs, got to know them well and understood their aspirations, as well as observed the efforts of all institutions. Having held several sensitive positions for a while, he is fully aware of the root causes of the flaws and the suffering faced by the people. As His Highness stated in one of his speeches, “Despite our dissatisfaction with certain decisions, we had to listen and obey, because obeying the ruler is obeying the Almighty.” As a result, His Highness’s announcement of this delicate surgical procedure marks the beginning of a lengthy process to address all the negative effects stemming from the period after Kuwait’s liberation, with indicators that first emerged prior to the invasion and became firmly established thereafter.
As a statesman, His Highness fully understands the consequences of National Assembly members interfering with executive authority, as well as the ways in which the deep state attempts to thwart legislation and undermine institutions.
Indeed, any citizen who wishes to see their country advance alongside others will not be satisfied with the current state of affairs. In this context, I recall that Kuwait faced a severe financial and economic crisis from 1980 to 1987. The late Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad sought the assistance of foreign experts to address the issue, and he was successful. He also established the Public Institution for Social Security, with its bylaws drafted by foreign specialists who had a deep understanding of the subject.
However, following these achievements, chaos ensued in the National Assembly, leading to its quick dissolution due to violations of the constitutional boundaries that govern the relationship between the National Assembly and the government. This is what transpired last year when the actions of lawmakers caused many to lose faith in democracy and the National Assembly. As tensions escalated, sectarian and tribal banners began to emerge, overshadowing the banner of Kuwait. For those with wisdom, this issue is serious and cannot be overlooked. Regardless of the reasons, this is why His Highness the Amir took courageous measures.
Therefore, accelerating the development of legislation, including constitutional amendments, is central to the current Council of Ministers’ agenda, either through local expertise or international specialists. All countries seek the assistance of external minds and expertise, especially when working to rebuild, develop, and strengthen state projects. For instance, one neighboring country reached the brink of bankruptcy at one point, with proponents of divisive projects sharpening their swords against it. However, thanks to the wisdom of its leadership and their use of international experts, the country managed to avoid this dangerous slippery slope.
Today, it stands as a beacon of development and modernity, serving as a model in the fight against corruption. In today’s turbulent world, while we have national expertise, it is necessary to introduce foreign minds to our own to support modern amendments that will benefit the country’s future and protect it from potential crises. We must establish both internal and external defense mechanisms, as everyone aspires for Kuwait to be on par with advanced countries, and even competitive in various fields, especially in the economic field. Kuwait should strive for strength comparable to that of Switzerland, and avoid any vulnerabilities that could lead to crises.
By Ahmed Al-Jarallah
Editor-in-Chief, the Arab Times
