KUWAIT CITY, Sept 30: Minister of Justice Counselor Nasser Al-Sumait announced the successful completion of the first phase of Kuwait’s strategic plan to replace and empower national cadres within the judiciary, marking a key milestone in the country's broader "Kuwaitization" efforts.

In a statement to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Monday, Al-Sumait affirmed that this initiative comes in direct implementation of the directives of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, aimed at increasing reliance on national talent and strengthening the judiciary’s sovereign character.

Al-Sumait revealed that the first phase has effectively reduced the number of non-Kuwaiti judicial members from 342 to 273. As a result, the proportion of non-Kuwaitis within the judiciary has dropped from 21.5 percent to 17.9 percent as of September 30, 2025.

He noted that this progress followed the issuance of 69 ministerial decisions to end the services of Egyptian judges upon the conclusion of their contracts. “These judicial members have served the Kuwaiti justice system with dedication and professionalism throughout their tenure,” Al-Sumait said, extending his deep appreciation and gratitude to them and wishing them continued success.

The Minister emphasized that the Kuwaitization plan is progressing according to a clearly defined timeline, with the ultimate goal of achieving full national self-sufficiency in judicial cadres by October 1, 2030.

“This achievement reflects a rightful sovereign aspiration and embodies the leadership’s unwavering confidence in the capabilities and competence of Kuwaiti nationals,” he stated.

The move is part of a broader national strategy to localize key sectors and reinforce Kuwait’s long-term vision for institutional development and sustainability.