KUWAIT CITY, Aug 20: The Kuwait Cabinet convened its weekly meeting on Tuesday morning, August 20, 2024, at Bayan Palace, chaired by His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. Following the meeting, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Sherida Abdullah Al-Muasherji provided the following statement:

"At the outset of the meeting, the Cabinet heard an explanation from His Excellency the First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, regarding the directives of the political leadership to fully support governors and grant them a more significant role in advancing the country’s development. The Cabinet approved a draft decree to amend certain provisions of Decree No. 81 of 2014 concerning governorates, aiming to enhance the governors' authority to oversee the implementation of state policies, monitor development projects, and improve services across all governorates, thereby reflecting Kuwait’s progressive image. The Cabinet also instructed ministers to coordinate with governors to meet their needs and to raise the efficiency and quality of services provided to citizens and residents.

The Cabinet expressed its pleasure over the safe return of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Oil, Dr. Emad Mohammed Al-Ateeqi, following a health issue he encountered while abroad. The Cabinet wished him good health and a long life, so he may continue his dedicated service to the nation and its citizens.

The Cabinet also reviewed a visual presentation by His Excellency the Minister of Information and Culture, Abdulrahman Badah Al-Mutairi, on the events organized by the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters in celebration of Kuwait being named the Capital of Arab Culture for 2025. These events aim to showcase Kuwait’s cultural heritage and highlight its leading role in the region.

Additionally, the Cabinet examined a presentation by Her Excellency the Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Dr. Amthal Hadi Al-Huwailah, regarding Kuwait’s preparations to host the Arabian Gulf Cup Football Championship (Gulf 26) from December 21, 2024, to January 3, 2025. Dr. Al-Huwailah outlined the work of the Supreme Organizing Committee and its sub-committees, including finance, media, security, and public relations, in collaboration with relevant government bodies to ensure the championship is organized in a manner befitting Kuwait’s esteemed status.

The Cabinet also listened to an update from His Excellency the Minister of Health, Dr. Ahmed Abdul Wahab Al-Awadhi, on the global situation regarding monkeypox and the precautions Kuwait is taking to prevent the disease. Dr. Al-Awadhi assured that no cases have been detected in Kuwait and that the Ministry of Health is fully prepared to protect public health.

The Cabinet praised the Ministry of Health’s efforts in monitoring global health developments and ensuring the safety of citizens and residents.

Furthermore, the Cabinet reviewed a report from His Excellency the Minister of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy, and Minister of State for Housing Affairs, Dr. Mahmoud Abdulaziz Bushehri, on Kuwait’s electricity production and future energy projects.

The Cabinet was also informed by the Public Authority for Combating Corruption (Nazaha) about the referral of several former officials and employees to the Public Prosecution for suspected crimes, including facilitating the embezzlement of public funds and failing to disclose financial assets, as required by Law No. 2 of 2016.

In this context, the Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to preserving public funds and enforcing laws against any violations.

Lastly, the Cabinet approved the recommendations of the Higher Committee for the Investigation of Kuwaiti Nationality, which included cases of loss and revocation of nationality from individuals who obtained it through fraudulent means, by Decree-Law No. 15 of 1959 on Kuwaiti nationality and its amendments. The Cabinet expressed its support for the committee's efforts to safeguard the national identity."