KUWAIT CITY, Sep 11: In a decisive move that underscores Kuwait’s commitment to social and economic stability, the government has begun implementing measures to facilitate the rights and benefits of individuals whose citizenship was previously revoked. The Cabinet, under the leadership of First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, approved measures granting those affected—particularly women married to Kuwaitis (Article 8) and holders of noble deeds (Article 5)—“Kuwaiti treatment”, ensuring access to benefits and services on par with Kuwaiti citizens.

The implementation came swiftly after Wednesday’s high-level government meeting, with ministries and agencies moving without delay to issue circulars and directives to streamline the processes for those concerned. The Capital Markets Authority confirmed in an official circular that all decisions by the Cabinet regulating the rights and benefits of former citizens, including those previously granted “Kuwaiti treatment,” would now take immediate effect. The circular also nullified earlier restrictions imposed by the Central Agency for Illegal Residents in May 2024, which had prevented transactions for affected individuals except via special cards issued by the agency.

In a tangible demonstration of this new approach, the Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy has already begun signing contracts for affected female employees under Article 8. One such contract has been submitted to the Civil Service Bureau to validate the appointment procedures in accordance with the new contract format approved by the Civil Service Council.

Sources familiar with the matter confirmed that the ministry is set to finalize contracts for approximately 160 female employees whose citizenships were revoked, restoring their ability to resume work under the newly sanctioned terms. The Administrative Affairs Sector has been praised for its proactive role in ensuring the smooth completion of these procedures, with expectations that all contracts will be formally signed by next week, following the completion of pre-contractual requirements.

For many affected individuals, these steps represent not just a restoration of rights, but a symbolic vindication of their place in Kuwaiti society. Government officials have emphasized that these measures aim to protect individual rights while reinforcing the broader goal of national stability and social cohesion, signaling a historic shift in the treatment of former citizens.