KUWAIT CITY, July 3: MP Abdulrahman Al-Anjari has announced his plan to present a draft bill on the establishment of political associations, instead of political parties, in the next legislative round, reports Al-Rai daily. In a recent press statement, Al-Anjari argued the word ‘association’ has lesser impact than ‘parties’, especially since the Kuwaitis do not accept the latter as it is often linked with republics and military coup d’état. “I have discussed this idea with some people and they have expressed their willingness to support it. During the parliamentary summer break, I will prepare the bill to limit sectarianism and tribalism. We look forward to the formation of political associations, away from personal affiliations,” Al-Anjari asserted, wishing his colleagues will support his proposal.

Al-Anjari pointed out the associations will focus on national economic and development agenda, far from any tribal or sectarian tendency. He went on to say the National Assembly passed a number of significant laws during the recently concluded legislative term in spite of some exaggerations in its regulatory role.
He added the Financial and Economic Affairs Committee was one of the most active panels, hoping the next term will be as fruitful as this round, if not more productive.

Meanwhile, MP Saad Al-Khanfour has commended the quick response of the government, represented by HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, to the request of some citizens to stop the Anti-Encroachment Committee from removing the exterior stairs in their houses, reports Al-Seyassah daily. Al-Khanfour pointed out the committee has been abusing its power as it seems bent on demolishing every structure in the country, even the stairs and gardens which do not harm anyone. He also asked the government to implement the laws approved by the National Assembly in the previous sessions.

Meanwhile, Al-Rai daily has quoted MP Mohammed Hayef Al-Mutairi as saying that the Negative Phenomena Committee at the Parliament approved Thursday a number of recommendations, including the establishment of a rehabilitation center for those engaged in immoral activities, such as the devil worshippers.
Al-Mutairi added the panel has also approved regulations to stop the immoral activities in some hotels in the country. He said the panel will also discuss a number of issues like national unity, spread of drugs in jails, and negligence in most government authorities.
In the meantime, Deputy Premier and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Dr Mohammad Al-Sabah has referred to the National Assembly the response of Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) to the bill presented by a number of lawmakers on the amendment of some articles of law number 25/1974 to reorganize the fund, modify its purpose and increase the capital, reports Al-Anba daily quoting sources.
Sources said the proposed changes will allow the fund to grant loans to the Kuwaiti stock companies established by the government with a certain percentage of shares offered for public subscription to implement the development projects.
Sources added the proposed amendments include a stipulation allowing the fund to obtain loans or issue bonds. Sources pointed out the fund did not take this step before because it totally depended on its internal resources for financing. Sources said borrowing may affect interest rates on loans granted to developing countries, which need financing with feasible conditions.
On the other hand, KFAED General Manager Abdulwahab Al-Bader expressed his satisfaction over the performance of the fund, while enumerating several technical difficulties it has faced in the past. He also clarified the procedures which should be taken to implement the proposal after obtaining approval from the National Assembly.