The recent statement of First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, praising His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al- Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah as a blessing for this time, is a recognised truth and an example for all of Kuwait and the region. This sentiment arises when reflecting on the nation’s struggles and decline in all sectors since 1963, a period marked by the frequent misuse of democracy. Intended for Kuwait’s betterment and progress, democracy was, for many decades, reduced to a series of conflicts between successive governments and the National Assembly. For several decades, this Assembly often turned into tribal, sectarian and regional blocs, losing its essential function as a body for legislation, governmental oversight and correcting practical errors.

The atmosphere in Abdullah Al-Salem Hall deteriorated a lot, with freedom of expression turning into personal attacks and vulgarity aimed at individuals, officials, and even friendly and allied nations. This behavior had detrimental consequences, leading to widespread discord among the populace and negatively affected local social relations and regional and international positions. The economic sphere also suffered. Vital legislation was frequently rejected by certain parliamentary blocs or groups of MPs who prioritized their narrow self-interests. Also, local investments were dominated by narrow commercial interests, effectively barring foreign investment. The dissolution of the National Assembly led to the shelving of more than 400 laws, as the pursuit of power and resources overshadowed the strategic priorities of the country.

While the important legislation remained untouched, other laws were passed primarily for the benefit of the Members of Parliament (MPs), electoral figures and powerful individuals. Moreover, international agreements and projects were subjected to the selfserving interests of MPs. These representatives rejected agreements that did not offer personal advantages, resulting in increased regional and international wariness toward Kuwait. The assessment of Sheikh Fahad Al- Yousef is correct: His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad initiated a genuine revolution in political, social and economic spheres. This is evident in the growing stability of the ministerial position, which is now yielding positive results.

This transformation is the direct outcome of a leadership committed to restoring the prestige of the State, reinforcing governance, and providing stringent oversight. Such guidance is crucial for the pursuit of legislative and project initiatives that are beneficial for Kuwait and its citizens. Within two years since His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad assumed power, there has been remarkable progress in resolving a plethora of perennial issues. The important files addressed include, but are not limited to, citizenship, forged certificates, falsified disability claims, road infrastructure improvements, thefts in cooperative societies, exceptional pensions, monopolization of tenders, price gouging, and non-compliance with specifications in projects.

In addition, he focused on economic partnership with various countries and international companies. Many of these matters were stalled or deliberately shelved by successive legislatures, often referred to investigative committees solely for the purpose of being buried. Past examples include commissions related to arms deals and major projects like the Dow Chemical deal. In contrast, investigations are now underway, files are being reopened, and officials implicated in wrongdoings are facing trial and imprisonment.

The previous statement that nations can become so weak, one might despair of salvation, simply underscores the inevitability of change. Therefore, fate provided us with a leader whose main goal is to serve the country and restore its preeminent status. To achieve this, the Cabinet must diligently execute His Highness the Amir’s directives in all sectors, while upholding the principles of justice established by the architect of this decision and revolution. An Arabic proverb reminds us: Descending into a valley is easy, but the journey back up, the return to the correct path, necessitates greater strength and resolve. Indeed, some past decisions were ill-advised, leading to opposition. Similarly, certain measures may have displeased those who did not benefit from them, driven by political differences or private commercial interests. These decisions and steps must be reviewed and reassessed to ensure they serve the interests of everyone. The Cabinet must follow roadmap for Kuwait’s future, laid down by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad in his inaugural speech on Dec 20, 2023.

In that 2023 address, His Highness’ speech was a sharp critique of the then National Assembly and government. He stated “we have not witnessed any change or course of correction from you (the National Assembly and the government at the time). On the contrary, the matter has gone even further, as you have cooperated and united in harming the interests of the country and its people.” This moment marked a critical juncture in Kuwaiti political history. It was disappointing that neither party seemed to have learned from the nation’s decades of experience. The expectation was for the democratic process to reach full maturity, but regrettably, this did not occur.

This history serves as a stern warning today, ensuring the current government remains on the correct path. The reforms initiated by His Highness the Amir two years ago have started to show signs of progress and decisive action, which are underpinned by a clear vision and strategic plan from the Council of Ministers. The anniversary of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad’s accession to the throne falls on a Friday, coinciding with the day he announced and implemented measures to suspend certain articles of the Constitution, including the National Assembly, which was identified as an impediment to national progress. Furthermore, the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior previously affirmed that the Amir is leading this current phase. His Highness, who is in charge of the State of Kuwait, gave assurance that no one will face injustice