Kuwait’s Emir Appoints Eldest Son As PM

29 Jul 2022 Issue: 65 / 30 By: Yesar Al-Maleki

Kuwait’s Emir has appointed his eldest son as prime minister in further evidence of a consolidation of power by his branch of the ruling Al Sabah family. Can clarity over the succession ease damaging political positioning from within the family?

Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Sabah on 24 July appointed his eldest son and now former Minister of Interior and First Deputy Prime Minister, Sheikh Ahmad Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Sabah, as the emirate’s new Prime Minister. The new PM only joined the cabinet as Interior Minister last March (MEES, 18 March). The announcement was made by the Crown Prince, Sheikh Mishal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, who due to the Emir’s ailing health has de-facto taken up his constitutional tasks and responsibilities.

The appointment comes at a critical time for the petro-emirate where day to day government activities are still being handled by the caretaker government of former Premier Sheikh Sabah Al Khalid Al Sabah. Political actors are gearing for the next parliamentary elections, after the Emir – via the Crown Prince – announced on 22 June that he will dissolve parliament and issue a decree to hold early elections. (CONTINUED - 1078 WORDS)