The rain starts with a few drops, and then it starts pouring heavily – this perfectly describes the recent developments within the Council of Ministers, which is actively working to fulfill the aspirations of a new era; I emphasize ... the aspirations of this era. The burden of a long legacy is indeed heavy. The chaos inherited over more than 30 years has left behind deep-rooted negative effects that cannot be undone overnight.
State institutions have suffered from fragmented opinions, rampant opportunism, and blatant corruption, including the buying of loyalties not only through financial means but also by granting senior positions to inefficient individuals, which arguably is the most destructive form of corruption. Most ministries to date are staffed with employees who face many criticisms, especially those occupying those offices via “parachute appointments” through parliamentary interference. Many hold academic degrees, some of which are fake PhDs, and have assumed important positions. This has negatively impacted salaries, as state funds are being drained by individuals holding forged certificates. Consequently, the workforce has grown beyond the state’s capacity. For over 16 years, salaries have not been increased, while inflation has steadily eroded citizens’ purchasing power.
On this basis, Kuwait has fallen behind in development, infrastructure projects, and public services. This is why we have witnessed power outages during the hottest summer days. We have repeatedly emphasized that energy projects require a comprehensive review and serious action. Public services and the lengthy, frustrating documentation processes also need urgent reform. While many problems and crises stem from administrative chaos, electoral interference, and other factors negatively affecting life in the country, the most alarming consequence is the persistent underdevelopment of education. This major problem has lasted for years due to the lack of a clear strategy to establish an advanced education system aligned with labor market demands. Instead of real education, students are often subjected to indoctrination that promotes ignorance rather than real knowledge.
There is much to be said about the deep-rooted problems caused by this system, which fueled sectarian, tribal, and even regional fanaticism, producing generations that lack a true sense of national patriotism. No one paid attention to the dangers these conditions posed or their negative impact on Kuwait’s future. It is important to note that the National Assembly does not bear sole responsibility.
The Council of Ministers also shares the blame, having long been subject to the control of certain deputies, especially regarding development projects, which were managed according to a corrupt quota system. If an influential figure’s share was deemed insufficient, their representatives in the National Assembly would obstruct the project. If there was a disagreement between the minister and the contractor, the minister would obstruct the project’s progress. I will not even delve into the exchange of private interests, as one article would hardly be enough to cover it. Undoubtedly, this situation does not build a state of strong institutions; rather, it seems more suited to establishing private fiefdoms.
Meanwhile, it saddens us to watch neighboring countries advance technologically and achieve remarkable feats. Although some of these countries are larger than Kuwait, that should not prevent us from having the capacity to implement similar projects and to rely on experienced professionals. While we import approximately 95 percent of our food, China has successfully cultivated areas dozens of times larger than Kuwait with productive trees, which have helped reduce both import costs and temperatures. We could have benefited greatly from replicating such successful initiatives if the obstacles had been removed.
Today, under the guidance of the political leadership, the Council of Ministers is making progress. Positive signs are emerging, including the recently launched visa platform. Kuwait has begun boosting its gross domestic product and encouraging domestic spending, following the example of its sister countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council. There is no doubt that this step is welcomed by all, given its positive impact on stimulating the national economy, strengthening family stability, and encouraging growth in various sectors. This is what we have been saying for 30 years, yet no one seemed to listen. The real power was never in the hands of the decision-makers, but rather with those who mastered blackmail, the loudest voices, and those most skilled at politically undermining ministers.
While the picture is now improving, the Cabinet must continue on this path and accelerate progress to help the state overcome this heavy legacy. In administration, it is well understood that only those who do nothing make no mistakes, and the right path is to keep working, knowing that mistakes are easier to correct when you are actively moving forward. Thanks to the guidance of its ruler, Kuwait has begun moving on the right path. The train may pause at some stations, but it will never reverse course. Kuwait has the potential to achieve a comprehensive renaissance, backed by its financial resources, including the sovereign wealth fund and other financial reserves, as well as its unlimited talented human capital and the capabilities of the private sector. The important thing is to continue amending and updating laws. We hope that what we are witnessing today are just the first drops before the heavy rain starts falling.
