Kuwait: Government versus Parliament

The Kuwaiti government, led and appointed by the country's ruling family, is often at odds with the country’s elected parliament, the National Assembly. Tensions and disagreements – over issues ranging from government debt to corruption – have at times forced ministerial resignations, cabinet reshuffles and the dissolution of the legislature itself.

The differences have also stymied much-needed economic reforms. While some senior royals are keen to defuse tensions, there is no clear path to resolving the rivalry between the government and MPs.

Kuwaiti emir tries to delay start of parliament, sparking fresh political crisis

Issue 1186 - 11 April 2024

Emir Sheikh Mishaal has sought to push back the opening of the new parliament until mid-May, after his initial pick for prime minister turned down the job. However, some MPs have claimed the delay is unconstitutional, setting off another political crisis within days of the 4 April election

Kuwaiti emir tries to delay start of parliament, sparking fresh political crisis

Kuwaiti voters return a familiar parliament, as political deadlock endures

Kuwait: Candidates line up for April general election, security on the agenda amid tensions with Iraq

Kuwait to head to the polls on 4 April

Kuwait braces for yet another election, after Emir Mishaal dissolves parliament

Kuwait left waiting for a new crown prince while rivals circle PM Sheikh Mohammed

Kuwait’s incoming prime minister makes wholesale changes to cabinet

Emir Mishaal launches his rule over Kuwait with forthright criticism of MPs, government and his predecessor

Kuwait: Government at risk of falling, as PM's interest in job falters

Kuwait's political battles resume as parliament returns to work

Kuwait's conservatives are flexing their political muscle

Shortages hit Kuwaiti economy as dysfunctional politics system take its toll

Kuwaiti MPs approve electoral reforms and budget

Kuwait: Education minister latest to quit cabinet

Kuwait finance minister quits after losing KIA role

Kuwait's Sheikh Ahmed Al-Fahad makes surprise return to frontline politics as defence minister

Election results set the scene for further political battles in Kuwait

Kuwait country map – revised January 2022

Kuwait: Al-Sabah family tree – revised November 2021

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