SHAPING the future is our collective responsibility. We must rise up to the challenge and fulfill the vision announced by His Highness Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad, the Amir of the moment.
For six decades, Kuwait endured a power struggle and parliamentary interference in the executive authority’s work. Ministers often acted merely as executors of the orders of 50 parliamentarians. This led to a perception that Kuwait was governed by 51 amirs, with MPs assuming roles akin to de facto rulers. His Highness’s decision to amend the constitution aims to address this irregular situation.
The turmoil in the past few decades hindered development and impacted the social fabric, leaving citizens caught between the rock of the game of political interests and the hard place of the failure of successive Cabinets in curbing parliamentary encroachment on governmental powers and blocking legislation that threaten to fundamentally change the Kuwaiti culture.
In contrast, the neighboring Gulf countries pursued their development goals with a clear vision and without being deterred by discordant voices.
Their leaders focus on advancing development, regardless of all considerations. For instance, they amended laws related to nationality and residency to foster a culture of productivity, rather than resting on past achievements. As the poet Ibn Al-Wardi wisely said, “Never say my origin and my lineage; a man’s worth is defined by what he acquires. The value of a person lies in what he does best.”
In this context, we observed how the UAE defended the owner of the “Telegram” app, who is an Emirati of Russian-origin. The UAE even suspended certain agreements with France, because it is focused on using minds for achieving sustainable development, similar to Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.
These countries benefit from the talents and expertise that we in Kuwait unfortunately often overlook or expel. They understand the value of nurturing such minds for their development.
Therefore, when we talk about our collective responsibility in shaping the future, we must be meticulous in dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s, because we strive for development, which is the vision clearly set forth by His Highness the Amir of the moment.
We cannot stand idly by while we restrict the great potential of talented individuals, including those from the Bedoun community and others.
It seems that some view the state as a “cash cow” of privileges, reserving these benefits solely for themselves.
Those we expelled have sought opportunities in other countries, where their skills are valued. Many have achieved high positions as doctors, professors, artists, and investors, which are roles they could have carried out here in Kuwait.
Instead of pursuing those who could contribute to Kuwait’s progress, we must recognize our need for skilled professionals. Building a modern state and undertaking major projects requires skilled workers. It is counterproductive to drive away those who can serve and advance our nation.
Today, we face a pivotal moment under the leadership of His Highness, who has made bold decisions to address decades of inefficiency in state institutions. For 50 years, past glories, which are often exaggerated, have obscured the real issues caused by mismanagement and social, economic, and political missteps.
His Highness’s directives are clear. They require individuals to fully commit to their responsibilities, leveraging every worker, skilled professional, and innovative thinker.
We must not ignore the wrong practices that have been emerging lately, particularly those related to residency law violations, which burden public finances and security services. The private sector has benefited significantly from the recent decision to allow domestic workers to transfer their residency to companies.
Hence we ask - What harm would it cause the state to amend the residency law and make the government the sponsor of visas, rather than making the expatriates pay the fees? This approach could resolve the issue related to violations of residency and labor laws, as many countries have successfully done.
Also, what harm would it cause the Ministry of Commerce and Industry or the Public Authority for Manpower if a resident is a partner with a Kuwaiti, even if his residency is under Article 18? Why should someone over the age of 60, without a university degree, be barred from working unless they pay a specific amount?
Such restrictions hinder businesses and projects, and push valuable expertise out of Kuwait. Is it reasonable for someone who has worked for 30 years to be forced to leave their job and this country due to arbitrary decisions?
We must ask over and over again - How would the position of Kuwait be if other countries imposed similar restrictions or denied Kuwaiti citizens entry? Can projects succeed with mere slogans?
A clear vision is needed to maximize the potential of the labor market and facilitate the work of the private sector, particularly when it comes to certifications. If an entrepreneur wants to collaborate with an honest worker, will the state expel them simply for lacking a university degree?
These policies do not align with the aspirations of the Amir of the moment, who envisions a future that benefits Kuwait.
