Kuwait’s Emir Dissolves Parliament for the Second Time Due to Political Stalemate in Oil-Rich Country | Global News

Kuwait’s Emir Dissolves Parliament Again Amid Political Gridlock

In a bold move, Kuwait’s Emir, Sheikh Meshal Al Ahmad Al Jaber, has once again dissolved the country’s parliament, citing the ongoing political deadlock that has plagued the nation in recent years. The announcement was made in a televised address, where the Emir also revealed that other parts of the constitution had been suspended for a period of up to four years.

“The unhealthy atmosphere experienced by Kuwait in previous years has encouraged the spread of corruption to reach most state facilities,” stated the 83-year-old Emir. “I will never allow the misuse of democracy to destroy the state, because the interests of the people of Kuwait are above all.”

This decision comes after Kuwait held national elections for the fourth time in as many years in an attempt to break the political gridlock. The nation has been embroiled in domestic disputes, particularly regarding changes to the welfare system, which have hindered its ability to take on debt despite its vast oil reserves.

Kuwait, a key U.S. ally in the region, has the world’s sixth-largest known oil reserves and hosts thousands of American military personnel. It is the only Gulf Arab country with a democratically elected parliament that provides some checks on the ruling family.

The Emir’s decision to dissolve parliament once again underscores the challenges facing Kuwait as it grapples with political turmoil and economic instability. The future of the nation remains uncertain as it navigates through these turbulent times.