... and consulted them on the matter
After working under the 1962 Constitution, transitioning to a modern civil state, and consolidating democratic life through the establishment of elected councils up to the last National Assembly in 2024, the democratic journey encountered numerous setbacks, forcing the Amir to suspend the Assembly three times. Let us acknowledge that the idealistic provisions enshrined in the Constitution were not implemented in practice. The Parliament failed to serve effectively as a watchdog and legislator, and governments did not function as executive authorities that cooperate and coordinate. Instead, we ended up with two political parties: when they cooperate, it is merely to share interests and spoils; when they clash, the train of development stalls at stations of disagreement and gathers rust.
These setbacks in this process explain the positive resonance among Kuwaitis when His Highness the Amir of the State decided in 2024 to suspend the implementation of certain constitutional provisions and dissolve the Assembly. The resonance was significant compared to the few voices that argued dissolving the Assembly would contribute to instability and the spread of corruption, given the absence of oversight and the possibility that subsequent decisions might not serve the public interest. These voices subsided and receded as it became clear that stability had become firmer, reform stronger, and the war on corruption more fierce and far-reaching, targeting all transgressors without exception, starting with the prominent before the ordinary, and those from the ruling family before others.
The ongoing reform workshop across all fronts has fostered a broad climate of confidence, both domestically and internationally, politically and economically. Credit for this, after God Almighty, goes to His Highness the Amir, who has repeatedly affirmed that the concerns and interests of Kuwaitis are his absolute priorities.
Against this backdrop, voices have begun to emerge, albeit hesitantly, calling for the establishment of a Shura Council or other bodies under different names. Let us be realistic: developing the political system does not require “facade” councils managed by “notables” to serve personal interests and gain social and political prominence. This not only reveals the short-sightedness of its proponents but also represents a financial burden we can ill afford, which can be classified as concealed waste.
I speak as a citizen representing myself, recalling the noble Quranic verse, “And consult them in the matter,” whose clear interpretation is to seek the opinions of those with knowledge, specialists, experts, and those proficient in governance, to discuss fundamental issues and agree on what is most beneficial and appropriate. The Prophet’s saying, “He who consults will not regret,” further underscores this principle.
Second, a Council for Education and Youth. Personally, I consider this the most important council, as it deals with issues concerning Kuwait’s true wealth. No great nation has risen without education, and the future has been shaped only by youth.
These specialized councils would have their members personally selected by the Amir from individuals of sound judgment, wisdom, and insight in each of the three fields mentioned. Kuwait is full of talents and competencies. These members would serve as the eyes and helpers of the executive authority, proposing the best possible laws and projects for Kuwait in every field, prioritizing them to support government work, while maintaining constant oversight by His Highness.
This elite group of Kuwaitis, comprising the best in their respective fields, would contribute their expertise and distilled experiences for the benefit of the country through practical, executable proposals and programs, moving beyond the divisive “our book and your book” mentality. There would be coordination with ministries, continuous alignment to prevent duplication, and an organized mechanism to unify efforts.
Today, as a Kuwaiti citizen, I say loudly after more than 60 years of experience, I do not care whether the National Assembly returns to its former state or not. I do not care about wasting days, months, and years debating Western democracy and how to apply it here, with or without modifications. Nor do I care about the constant controversy over who represents the people and who represents the people on behalf of others.
All I want, for my children, grandchildren, and future generations, is that the best means be chosen to advance Kuwait in all fields and restore its pioneering role and charm at the forefront of progress. I want the Kuwaiti graduate to find respectable employment in their field and specialization upon leaving university. I want the state to serve as a protective umbrella and a reference point for all, and for the sectarian, confessional, and regional divisions that have dominated the landscape for decades to be dissolved in the crucible of development—development alone.
