00:00 Kuwait's Emir has made a significant decision to dissolve the parliament and assume certain
00:09 responsibilities of its members.
00:12 According to reports from state media, Emir Sheikh Mishal Al Ahmad Al Sabah, along with
00:18 cabinet appointment by the royal family, announced the assumption of powers from the 50-member
00:25 National Assembly during a televised address on Friday.
00:29 Additionally, the Emir declared the suspension of specific articles of the constitution for
00:35 a duration of up to four years, although details regarding these articles were not provided.
00:42 In a sobering address, the 83-year-old ruler acknowledged the pervasive challenges facing
00:49 Kuwait, attributing them to an unhealthy atmosphere that has fostered corruption within state
00:56 institutions, including security, economics, and even the justice system.
01:02 Emphasizing the severity of the situation, he underscored the intolerable nature of the
01:07 difficulties and obstacles encountered.
01:11 These remarks come in the wake of the first election held under Emir Sheikh Mishal's leadership.
01:18 Following his ascension of power last December upon the passing of his half-brother Sheikh
01:25 Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Jabir Al Sabah, persistent conflicts between the National Assembly and
01:31 the cabinet have led to the dissolution of Parliament on multiple occasions, hampering
01:36 efforts to stimulate investment and implement reforms aimed at reducing Kuwait's reliance
01:43 on oil revenue.
01:46 The scheduled parliamentary meeting on Monday faced resistance from several politicians who
01:52 refused to engage with the government.
01:55 Emir Sheikh Mishal attributed the failure to form a government to the demands and conditions
02:02 set by certain legislators, highlighting the pressing need to safeguard Kuwait's interests
02:08 amidst challenging times.
02:10 This move, described as historic by political analyst Badr Al Saif, reflects a significant
02:17 departure from previous norms and underscores the ongoing struggle between elected lawmakers
02:24 and the influential Al Sabah family, who wield considerable political power despite the parliamentary
02:31 framework established in 1962.
02:36 Persistent disputes have hindered the passage of vital reforms aimed at diversifying Kuwait's
02:42 oil-dependent economy, exacerbating budget deficits and discouraging foreign investment.
02:59 (upbeat music)
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