KUWAIT CITY, Sept 18: Some parties have demanded for the resignation of HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah due to his government’s failure to curb corruption in state institutions, including the legislative authority.
This came while some lawmakers called for quick measures to address the million dinar deposit scandal to punish those behind it and protect the reputation of the Parliament.
Speaking to reporters Sunday, MP Naji Abdulhadi asked the government to reveal the truth on the alleged deposit of millions of dinars into the bank accounts of some lawmakers and the identities of those involved regardless of their status or position, as well as refrain from covering up the case. He lamented the situation is getting worse; hence, the need to take the required steps to put everything in the right perspective and restore the confidence of the people in public institutions. He urged the government to reclaim the money deposited into the accounts of the lawmakers and put it back to the nation’s coffers.
Abdulhadi also emphasized the need for the Parliament to pass the necessary laws to prevent the recurrence of the scandal in the future. He said the government must respond positively to the calls of MPs to ratify the anti-corruption bills; otherwise, the public may think it is a ‘partner’ to those engaged in such unscrupulous acts. He asked his colleagues to declare their assets and liabilities, especially since the million deposit scandal has negatively affected the entire legislature. He believes this step will clear not only the names of the lawmakers, but most importantly, the Parliament.
On the other hand, MP Hussein Al-Huraiti expressed disappointment on rumors spreading through various social networking sites, which published names of lawmakers allegedly involved in the scandal. He said it seems the people believe rumors more than the facts.
Al-Huraiti vehemently denied allegations that he is involved in the scam, affirming he is ready to declare his assets and liabilities. He also affirmed his support for the youths calling for the end of legislative and executive corruption.
Speaking in his capacity as chairman of the Legal and Legislative Affairs Committee in the Parliament, Al-Huraiti affirmed the panel discussed draft bills on conflict of interest and establishment of a public authority for accountability, probe and transparency. He disclosed the committee has received a response from the Higher Judicial Council, which prefers discussion of its opinion on the issue, along with the other proposals, to avoid repetitions. He added the committee will meet again on Tuesday and the minister of Social Affairs was invited to the meeting slated for Sunday next week. He said the committee will continue meeting to finalize its report on the bills to be presented to the Parliament for approval.
Meanwhile, MP Dr Daifallah Buramiya revealed the lawmakers intend to probe into the violations committed by the banks in connection with the million deposit scam and allegations that they deal with financial derivatives. He stressed the need to punish all those involved in this crime.
Hoping the Arab Spring will not happen in Kuwait, Buramiya argued the unsatisfactory measures being taken by the government, bribery and widespread corruption are enough reasons for the Kuwaitis, including the youths, to demand for the ouster of the prime minister. He said those engaged in corruption must be referred to the court. He added the MPs are closely monitoring the issue to uncover the truth and to protect the legislative institution.
On the proposed limitation of the MPs’ period of service to two terms, Buramiya welcomes the idea and he will be the first to sign the bill once it is drafted.