By Abubakar A. Ibrahim
Arab Times Staff

KUWAIT CITY, Nov 2: HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah should understand the political message conveyed by 26 MPs, who signed a petition for his ouster, MP Musallam Al-Barrak said Wednesday.

Calling for the resignation of the premier, Al-Barrak asserted the number of signatures required to push for the ouster of Sheikh Nasser has been reached. He pointed out the signatories have the same demands - a new premier, a new government and a new approach in managing national affairs. He explained the number of signatories reached 26 after the statements made by MPs Hussein Mezyed and Hassan Jowhar, as well as the National Action Bloc.

“Now, we can say to Sheikh Nasser, the pens have been raised and the newspapers have dried. He should not cripple the country and drag it into useless political conflicts. He has no choice but to step down and give Kuwait - the country we love - a chance to breathe again,” Al-Barrak added.

Al-Barrak believes there is public discontent and anger due to the prevalence of corruption in various institutions. He accused Sheikh Nasser of causing the peoples’ disappointment. “This is exactly what we told the Amir in Tuesday’s meeting. Some lawmakers, consultants and institutions are engaged in corrupt activities; hence, the need for radical measures like the pro-reform rallies spearheaded by the youths, as well as the diwaniyas and forums,” he added.

In another development, MP Faisal Al-Duwaisan has called for the appointment of a dedicated minister of information and he should not handle other portfolios. He argued the ministry is one of the most important institutions in the country due to its impact on the political, social and economic sectors. He said the ministry is currently facing a number of problems, including corruption, so it is in dire need of a devoted and highly-qualified minister. He pointed out it is not good for ministers to handle numerous portfolios because it will be difficult for them to follow up the issues and to find lasting solutions to recurring problems.
Al-Duwaisan also appealed to the government to focus on issues concerning the nation and its people. He said the ministers, who feel they can no longer serve the people, must resign to give a chance to those willing to work in the interest of the whole nation.