It is distinguished…that is why it is under attack
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Some intellectuals and semi-intellectuals, particularly from Gulf countries, have voiced criticism against Kuwait’s democracy and the impact this experience has had on Kuwait and its people, asserting that the Kuwaiti democratic experience has placed them in dissatisfying situations.
The adoption of democracy by a small Arab Gulf country was met with disapproval from many nations for various reasons.
Those criticizing Kuwait’s democracy overlook the fact that democracy and the legitimacy of the Al Sabah Family were the foundation on which 34 countries based their decision to assist Kuwait in repelling the Iraqi invasion in 1991.
Conversely, when a major global power, with financial and logistical Gulf support, decided to overthrow the dictatorial regime of Muammar Gaddafi, there was little sympathy for his fate worldwide.
The same sentiment was echoed during the US invasion of Iraq when a greater number of people celebrated the overthrow of Iraq’s foolish dictator Saddam Hussein than those mourning him.
The subsequent chaos in Libya and Iraq could have been avoided if regimes had respected their people and prioritized their prosperity. The present turmoil in both countries stems from the misguided actions of Saddam Hussein and Gaddafi, who failed to learn from historical lessons.
It is essential to repeatedly emphasize that the current political disputes, arguments, developmental slowdown, and increased problems in Kuwait have no direct connection to democracy.
Criticizing democracy for these issues is akin to blaming a high-class car manufacturer because one car is not functioning properly. The problem lies in the misuse and lack of proper maintenance by the car owner. Democracy, which is disliked by some, has consistently been the driving force behind Kuwait’s innovation in various fields such as theater, art, sports, and science because innovation thrives on freedom.
Some argue that unless democracy leads to development, progress, equality, and justice, it is ineffectual and unnecessary. This viewpoint is similar to discarding a broken car without considering that its breakdown is due to the lack of regular maintenance and improper usage. Without maintenance and care, democracy can also deteriorate.
The opinion held by some individuals, including Saudi journalist Muhammad Alrotayyan, to forsake justice, free speech, and action for the sake of enjoying the impressive advancements in some Gulf cities concerning services, infrastructure, and superstructures is naive and illogical.
They contend that Kuwait’s democracy failed to achieve development, overlooking its numerous accomplishments in various domains. Their repeated criticism of democracy only underscores its influence and righteousness. However, the root issue lies in the deliberate mishandling and improper utilization of democracy.
As long as Kuwait remains committed to its ruling Dynasty, Constitution, and democracy, the right course can be regained. A decision is all that is needed to steer in the right direction. It is a simplistic way of thinking to suggest abandoning democracy for the sake of better roads. Achieving better roads merely requires a decision and has no bearing on democracy.
Both Saddam Hussein and Muammar Gaddafi possessed the capabilities to satisfy their people and create respected and distinguished nations. However, they squandered the opportunity for any progress. The question arises: what guarantees that Kuwait will not follow in the footsteps of Iraq or Libya if democracy is abandoned?
“Late Egyptian President Anwar Al Sadat once admitted in a moment of candor, “I have always believed in dictatorship. Now I dare say that the mistakes of democracy committed over centuries are much less than the mistakes of dictatorship in one hour because of the devastating effect of the latter.”
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By Ahmad alsarraf
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