In Kuwait, the Emir dissolves parliament and suspends part of the constitution

The Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al Ahmad Al Sabah, has issued a decree dissolving parliament and suspending some articles of the constitution for “a period not exceeding four years” after weeks of political tension following recent elections.

On Friday evening (May 10), the Kuwaiti leader said on television:

“We have ordered the dissolution of the National Assembly and the suspension of some articles of the constitution for a period not exceeding four years,” the emir said in a televised address on Friday evening.

“The recent unrest in Kuwait’s political scene has reached a stage where we can no longer remain silent. Therefore, we must take all necessary measures to ensure the well-being of the country and its people.”

During the suspension of the constitutional articles, all aspects of the democratic process would be examined, the emir said.

The powers of the National Assembly will be assumed by the country’s emir and cabinet, state television reported.

“Kuwait has been going through difficult times recently… which leaves no room for hesitation or delay in making the difficult decision to save the country and protect its highest interests,” the emir added.

Last month the Gulf state held its fourth election in as many years, with 39 of the previous parliament’s 46 MPs retaining their seats.

A new constitution, enacted after liberation from Iraq in 1990, created a parliament with considerable powers compared to other Gulf states. The result, however, has been long periods of stagnation and deadlock in decision-making between the executive branch, usually led by members of the ruling al-Sabah family, and the legislature.

Sheikh Meshal took office in December after the death of his predecessor and soon found himself in confrontation with parliament, which he duly dissolved so that new elections could be held in April. But almost all of the old MPs were re-elected and so the deadlock continued.

Source: commonspace.eu with agencies

Photo: The Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal al Ahmad, al Sabah