Kuwait: Kuwait Prime Minister urges respect for democracy, denounces corruption

Source: Al Madar

His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah set forth a vision to combat wide-scale corruption in Kuwait, in an effort to preserve democracy and put development goals in motion. Seeking progress in Kuwait to move toward a new era of change, His Highness noted that there must be a stronger adherence to the Kuwaiti Constitution to preserve democracy. He also called for purposeful discourse, not just criticism that hampers change.

In an interview by Al-Seyassah, Sheikh Nasser expressed that his comprehensive plan, founded on the regulation of political discussions in line with Kuwaiti values, will be a fruitful step toward achieving a working democracy free of corruption. Sheikh Nasser noted, "There is no one above the law in terms of corruption. Nobody should avoid questioning or punishment if proven guilty.... I am very concerned about this issue and I will not neglect it."

The Premier's forward thinking supports His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah's goal of making Kuwait a hub of global commerce. Looking ahead to the next Parliamentary term, Sheikh Nasser affirmed that this new approach to good government will be implemented throughout all political activities.

"We have been laying down new mechanisms to create refined political activities, which match the real democracy known throughout the world. We reject vulgar political remarks, devoid of real meaning of freedom, with international ethics as obtainable in all democracies," Sheikh Nasser noted.

The Premier also urged Kuwaitis to treat national symbols with respect. These symbols include the Amir, regarded as the most significant icon. Sheikh Nasser noted that wrongly invoking these symbols to spark disagreement further undermines state authority. "Citizens are equal before the law. We value people according to their loyalty to the country, its progress and plans," Sheikh Nasser stated.

Sheik Nasser's approach to democratic change is internal as much as it is external, and work is underway to make appropriate changes to government processes. "We have commenced serious efforts to improve the performance of people in the administration and we will continue working on it," he said.