Kuwait’s Emir Picks New PM After Latest Elections
The Emir, appointed a former oil minister, Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah al-Sabah, to lead the government. This comes after recent parliamentary elections in the Gulf nation, known for its political instability. Sheikh Ahmad will choose new cabinet members.
This decision follows two key events: the recent ascension of Sheikh Meshal to the Emirate and the third parliamentary vote in just three years. The opposition maintained control of the parliament in this latest election. The previous government resigned shortly after the April 4th polls due to ongoing tensions with the parliament.
The New Prime Minister Background
The new Prime Minister, Sheikh Ahmad, is 71 years old and previously served as both Oil and Information Minister (2009-2011). He recently held a high-ranking position in the crown prince’s court. Sheikh Ahmad has a background in finance, having earned a degree from the University of Illinois.
Despite being rich in oil reserves (7% of the world’s total) and having a strong elected assembly (most powerful in the Gulf), Kuwait struggles with political dysfunction. This often stems from disagreements between the parliament and the royally appointed government, with issues like corruption being a major point of contention. This dysfunction has hindered Kuwait’s efforts to diversify its economy like its neighboring Gulf countries.
