In our societies, reading books is the exception rather than the norm. Among the elite, there is a belief that reading negatively influences the thoughts and beliefs of avid readers, fearing it may lead to changes in thinking and the acceptance of diverse opinions. Hence, many clerics tend to discourage their followers from reading.

The late scholar Muhammad Metwally Shaarawy, one of the most influential figures of his time, once said that he read only one book and urged his followers to follow his example. Meanwhile, my brief interaction with the Minister of Interior, along with my modest knowledge of him, revealed another side of him, one that is marked by a great deal of compassion, logic, and intelligence. I am not flattering him, as I have never asked him for any favours.

This is my honest and frank opinion. Yousef also has a quick temper, which likely contributes to his frequent complaints of irritable bowel syndrome, much like many of us. This tough, disciplined security officer has surprised many with his knowledge and skills that even those who have read dozens of books might not have mastered. These skills are evident in many of his actions and decisions, along with his command of politics, despite never having practiced it formally, as well as his expertise in security matters.

Those who selected him for this mission recognized these qualities, which have made him the least beloved political figure to some who cannot be blamed for their stance, and the most admired by others, each for their own reasons. This may not have been seen with any of his predecessors or other politicians. We saw the same in his recent decision to visit the United States, meet with senior US administration officials, and conclude agreements with them.

The visit was unprecedented by all standards, with no previous government official having even considered undertaking such a mission. What is more deserving of praise are the recent strong and successive arrests of smugglers involved in drug trafficking, contraband, and the illegal export of diesel, cigarettes, and subsidized food supplies from Kuwait.

More importantly, there is an increasing number of military personnel involved in these crimes, particularly the serious ones. Perhaps this has always been the case, simply waiting for someone with the strength, resolve, and intelligence of Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef to take charge, strike at their hideouts, and end the cover-ups.

We saw the same at the Central Prison, which has long been a source of terrorism and corruption rather than a penal institution, despite rumors of continued violations involving exceptional treatment for some prisoners who receive five-star services. Also, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef’s role in exposing tens of thousands of forged citizenship cases and other crimes cannot be overlooked.

In conclusion, I hope that First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef will instruct the Public Relations and Security Media Department to stop publishing the names and faces of those arrested for any crime, as they are still undergoing investigation and have not yet been convicted. I am confident that his sense of justice will most likely prompt him to grant this request, so thank you in advance.