HH Amir calls for safeguarding Kuwaiti democracy

Kuwait, His Highness the Amir Shaikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah on Tuesday called for protecting and safeguarding Kuwait's democracy and freedoms.

In his speech to the third regular session of the 15th legislative term of the National Assembly, His Highness the Amir praised the high level of security and prosperity of the Kuwaiti people, affirming that it was the duty

of all Kuwaitis to prevent anyone or group from trying to meddle with their affairs, Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) reported.

His Highness the Amir reiterated the belief in the democratic methodology and practices, stressing that it was important to support and solidify such notions within the hearts of the people of this land.

Over 50 years of independence, Kuwaiti democracy took brave and strong strides towards maturity and excellence; however, there are those who mean harm towards the country's ambitions and progress, warned His Highness the Amir.

HH the Amir indicated that there were negative aspects and malpractices seeping into the democratic process in Kuwait, adding that it was vital to fight those people using sectarian strife, false promises of

development, shady practices to promote their own interests and destructive ideas.

His Highness Sheikh Sabah said that there should be no room for those exploiting the constitution and the law and there should be no compromise for individuals causing a halt in progression plans.

On the level of parliament, His Highness the Amir questioned the fevered race towards interpellations at the National Assembly, wondering if motions against the prime minister and ministers were necessary within the

constitutional mainframe.

The rights of members of parliament to pursue the truth should be well respected and admired, but at the same time, it is paramount for MPs to use their powers in a responsible manner and within the context of constitution.

Rules and legislations are meant to be respected by all, affirmed His Highness the Amir who stressed that he would be protecting the constitution and the legal system in Kuwait from abuse by any individuals or groups.

His Highness the Amir said that he was a contemporary of the early constitutional movement in Kuwait and had witnessed the efforts to bring the constitution to the light from day one.

In the past, the constitution writing committee members feared that the principles of the binding national document might be abused, said His Highness the Amir who indicated that such fears were somewhat justified and validated in the current times with elements trying to abuse the rules for their own gains.

HH the Amir called on all Kuwaiti people to rise to the occasion and fulfill their national duty to the homeland via rectifying the current parliamentary status quo.

HH the Amir took the chance to thank the leadership of the National Assembly for its efforts to bolster cooperation with the cabinet for the sake of Kuwait and its people.

In regards to the government, His Highness the Amir praised the cabinet for taking measures to protect public wealth, stressing that the Kuwaiti leadership was wholeheartedly behind the efforts to combat corruption and its sources.

While there are still some various challenges to tackle on the national level, the government should also take into consideration the alarming regional and international situations, indicated His Highness the Amir.

HH the Amir prescribed national unity and cooperation among the people of Kuwait as an antidote to fend off difficulties from abroad.

The country must seek efforts for reforms on all levels and it must unite people for a common cause to address challenges from abroad as one unit, said His Highness the Amir, adding that the future of the country lies not only in natural resources, but also through the young generation.

The freedom of speech and expression are two valuable assets of Kuwaiti society and the people of this country are proud of living in a land governed by law and institutions, indicated His Highness the Amir who added that there were no political prisoners in Kuwait as a result of the strong justice system.

HH the Amir warned of the irresponsible use of social media and technology in modern times, saying that such platforms should not be used to propagate hatred, sectarianism, and chaos both regional and internationally.

All countries in the region could be considered valid targets for those who thrive on destruction and mayhem, said His Highness Sheikh Sabah, adding that peace, security and stability were goals that should be common among all countries and nations.

His Highness the Amir wished that all problems facing the region and the GCC countries in specific would be overcome so as to continue the mutual stride for development and progression.

His Highness the Amir Shaikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah called on all those attending the new parliament session to work together, hoping that the message he delivered today would resonate amongst the people of Kuwait.

Leaving behind pessimism, negative thoughts, and sectarianism is essential for the development of Kuwait and its people, His Highness the Amir stressed, calling on the cabinet and parliament to continue their efforts for the sake of the country and its people

Source: Bahrain News Agency