KUWAIT CITY, Feb 17: Minister of Justice, Counselor Nasser Al-Sumait, announced that the Council of Ministers has approved an amendment to Article 251 of the Civil Code. This amendment is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the legislative system and ensure it aligns with economic and social changes. The change is aimed at revising the value of legal blood money to more accurately reflect its true worth, in accordance with the provisions of Islamic Sharia and the demands of justice.

Al-Sumait explained that the amendment responds to the financial and economic shifts witnessed over recent decades, as the previous estimation no longer aligns with the actual value of blood money as prescribed by Sharia law. To address this, the amount has been increased to 20,000 dinars, ensuring the preservation of life and reinforcing the concept of fair compensation.

The Minister also highlighted that the amendment eliminates the provision allowing for the blood money amount to be adjusted by decree, which has been proven ineffective and potentially destabilizing for legislation. Moving forward, any adjustments to the amount will follow clear and organized legislative procedures to ensure the law remains aligned with real-world developments while maintaining legal stability.

Al-Sumait emphasized that this amendment is part of the government’s commitment to enhancing the legislative framework in a manner that upholds justice, preserves rights, and is in harmony with established Islamic principles and the country’s evolving economic and social conditions.