‘Electronic Media Law aims to regulate work in the field, not to create chaos’ – MPs voice objection to ‘subsidies cut’

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KUWAIT CITY, Dec 28: Education and Guidance Affairs Committee Chairman in the National Assembly MP Ouda Al- Ruweie said the Electronic Media Law aims to regulate work in the field rather than creating chaos as it is happening now in light of the large number of websites. He argued this law serves the interests of website administrators, protects their rights and regulates their work; while denying the allegation that it curbs freedoms.

On the penalties, he clarified every law stipulates punishments for those proven to have violated its provisions. In another development, MP Saleh Ashour has threatened to submit an interpellation request against Minister of Education and Higher Education Bader Al- Essa on Jan 12 if the secretary general of the National Commission for UNESCO remains in his post. He explained the interpellation will focus on the financial and administrative irregularities. He disclosed, “I had previously told the minister that the procedures for appointing the secretary general were wrong but he did not listen to me. The minister did not cancel the appointment despite the violations against the ministry’s bylaws and regulations of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) in this regard.”

Fees
He pointed out that due to the low quality of public education, many people have resorted to the private sector. He urged the minister to control private education fees, as there have been rumors that some private schools intend to raise their fees by 40 percent. Furthermore, MP Abdullah Al-Mayouf has suggested allocating two hours of the next parliamentary session to mourn the late MP Nabel Al-Fadel in recognition of the vital role he played in the legislature. Meanwhile, several MPs voiced objection to the government’s plan to lift subsidies on some services and commodities which will directly affect people with limited income.

Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Mubarak Al-Khurainej has called on the financial agencies in the State to address financial issues and budget deficits without touching the privileges given to citizens. He asserted most members of the Assembly will reject such actions against citizens, especially since His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al -Sabah said in his address at the opening of the current legislative round that the special reforms on the budget will not affect the low-income earners.

Financial
He warned that lifting subsidies on certain services and goods will cause a lot of financial problems for the Kuwaiti family and add to their financial burdens; thereby, making it difficult for them to cope with the rising cost of living. MPs Hamdan Al-Azmi and Abdullah Al-Adwani shared the sentiments of the deputy speaker. Al-Azmi admitted he is surprised that the government insists on acting against the interests of citizens and continues to leak news just to provoke public opinion.

He said the recent announcement of the government regarding its plan to lift subsidies is another evidence of the fragility and superficiality of its policies, especially those affecting the living conditions of citizens. On the other hand, Al-Adwani argued that if the government really wants to reduce expenses, it should start with the benefits given to senior officials rather than the citizens with limited income.

He added a number of local and international studies have suggested ways to increase State revenues; hence, it is better to consider these recommendations instead of focusing on ordinary citizens.

By Abubakar A. Ibrahim Arab Times Staff

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