PRIOR to May 2023, Kuwait was engulfed in chaos and disarray due to practices that had persisted for three decades since liberation.
The reason for this chaos was the fact that instead of focusing on restoring the psychosocial well-being of the people, which was crucial in the aftermath of the invasion, the authorities focused on reconstruction efforts. These efforts primarily benefited influential individuals and business owners. They deliberately neglected psychosocial reforms and the development of a true national identity, which are of utmost importance.
This explains why we witnessed a profusion of corruption and serious crimes against the nation in a matter of years. It seemed as if the country had turned into a marketplace where stolen goods and insults to state symbols were openly displayed.
We also witnessed conspiracies against the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council member states, and deceit from the platforms of their people, who had sacrificed much to support Kuwaiti rights.
Instead of recognizing this support, some elites, including lawmakers and self-proclaimed “intellectuals,” criticized the solidarity and unity of the Gulf.
This situation made Kuwait appear weak and, at times, even as if it were an outcast within the Gulf region at one stage.
Regarding internal matters, the situation indicated that political, tribal, and sectarian groups were attempting to undermine internal stability and spread radical tribal, sectarian, and partisan affiliations through a multifaceted plan to destroy the state.
Parliamentary, tribal, and sectarian affiliations led to some police stations becoming tribal or sectarian strongholds. Consequently, criminals or wrongdoers emerging from these areas were often treated as heroes. The situation had escalated to such an extent that there were even attempts to undermine the judiciary.
This is why, when we previously stated and reiterate today that His Highness Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad, the Amir of the moment, undertook a courageous rescue operation, we were not exaggerating. The state had reached a point where a tribal and sectarian “de facto authority” seemed to be imposed.
This situation was exacerbated when influential and wealthy individuals sought the support of parliamentary blocs, some clerics, and even members of the ruling family, breaking the social contract between the people and the honorable Sabah family.
Nonetheless, it is not possible to clap with one hand. Without a responsible elite to translate the ruler’s aspirations into action, either by amending and updating laws or by appointing competent individuals to executive positions, all efforts will be in vain.
We therefore say it again - The torch ignited by His Highness the Amir requires determined individuals to carry it forward and illuminate the path to serve the nation and fulfill the people’s aspirations.
Today, Kuwait needs substantial efforts to address the repercussions of the practices of the last 60 years of chaos. This includes revitalizing the national economy through strategic economic development, establishing industrial infrastructures, achieving food self-sufficiency, and reforming education, which is crucial for the development of any nation.
We have repeatedly stated that Kuwait could benefit from tapping into talent from abroad. It is essential to think outside the box, as other countries have done, and to move beyond the sentiments that have caused a lot of harm, either in the view of expatriates or the notion that “Kuwait is a democratic state and therefore differs from other Gulf countries”. Everyone should work to serve their country and avoid clinging to past practices that have led to devastation.
Considering the huge improvements witnessed over the past four months due to the rescue measures of the Amir of the moment, it is crucial for the Council of Ministers and all state institutions to live up to the goodwill of the people, whose aspirations were declared by His Highness the Amir as his own.
We must overcome 60 years of misery, decline, looting, self-interest, and tribal and sectarian divisions, and instead follow in the guidance of the torch of the renaissance.
