KUWAIT CITY, May 1: National unity and speaking with once voice in a close-knit society are the best weapons to protect the country from external aggression, as well as maintain security, stability, and freedom, reports Al-Seyassah daily quoting several politicians and academicians.
In an opinion poll conducted by the daily recently, Political Science Professor at Kuwait University (KU) Dr Mudawes Al-Rushaidi stressed the need for nationalism to take precedence over affiliation to certain sects, doctrines and tribes. He said the lack of patriotism is one of the major obstacles to the development goals of Kuwait. He pointed out it is normal that people belong to different blocs or ideological groups but patriotism should be foremost in their minds. He opined peaceful dialogue must prevail in the country, instead of intense arguments and division. “Kuwaitis proved their ability to be united, cooperative and loyal to their country and political leaders during the Iraqi invasion in 1990,” he asserted.
National Democratic Alliance (NDA) member Dr Ahmad Al-Munayes considers patriotism as the highest level of loyalty, which should be placed ahead of tribal or sectarian affiliations. He stated Kuwait in the past has never witnessed sectarian, partisan or tribal divisions because everybody used to work for the nation. He called on the citizens to follow in the footsteps of their ancestors who prioritized the nation over other interests. He added lawmakers should serve as an example to their constituents by exemplifying complete loyalty to the nation.
Former Municipal Council member Abdullah Al-Buhairi emphasized the need for citizens to guarantee that the society is devoid of any development which might have a negative impact on peaceful co-existence. He underscored the significance of strengthening national unity to protect the country from external attacks. He said lawmakers must serve as tools for preventing tension and disintegration among people rather than fueling it.
International Labor Organization (ILO) representative in Kuwait Thabet Al-Haroun urged citizens to maintain security and stability through peaceful co-existence. He affirmed citizens have right to join different tribes, sects or ideological groups but this should not affect national unity and patriotism. “Kuwait will always be a united country but some people have been instigating conflicts to serve personal interests at the expense of national security and stability,” he lamented.