KUWAIT CITY, March 13: Acting Prime Minister Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah and the Interior Ministry have stressed that the Kuwaiti citizenship issue is thorny and lengthy, affirming that all articles of the Nationality Law will be reviewed, including the amendments to Article Five. In a statement during his visit to Al-Zawawi Diwaniya on Thursday, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef explained that any decision related to Kuwaiti citizenship will be made carefully. He said everything will happen in due time and in a just manner, especially for those who have acquired rights that are not theirs. He asserted “Kuwait has gone through an exceptional phase that will not be repeated.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah was committed to amend the national identity card.” He pointed out that the security situation in the country is not a coincidence, as it is rather the result of interference by individuals who are outside the Kuwaiti society; hence, the need for intensified efforts to maintain national security and stability. Regarding the number of Bedouns in the country, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef said “unfortunately, the recorded numbers are not the actual figures.

Those whose citizenship has been revoked are considered Bedouns until a decision is made. The Central Agency for Remedying the Situation of Illegal Residents (CARIRS) is currently handling the affairs of Bedouns and there is a new law for them, but I do not know when it will be issued. Some Bedouns have presented American and Canadian passports, as well as those from Arab countries. Their number is approximately 200. Ask the Ministry of Justice how many people sold their homes and properties for fear of being exposed, but I have no proof. I do not want to wrong anyone. Citizenship forgers are being exposed quickly and this work is ongoing. If one is not exposed today, he will be exposed tomorrow.”

By Munif Naif
Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff