Kuwait's Emir issues decree forming new government of 13 ministers
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The decree comes one day after Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah dissolved the national assembly and suspended some articles of the constitution.
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Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al Ahmad Al Sabah applauds during his oath ceremony at the National Assembly in Kuwait City, Kuwait, Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023. (AP)
Kuwait's Emir Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah issued Sunday a decree forming a new government consisting of 13 ministers headed by Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah.
The Emir on Friday dissolved parliament and assumed some government duties barely six weeks after elections in the Gulf state that has seen repeated political crises, state media reported.
The Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) said that "an emiri order was issued to dissolve the national assembly and suspend some articles of the constitution for a period not exceeding four years."
It said the Emir and the council of ministers were "assuming the powers granted to the national assembly."
The state's ruler attributed his move to the "interference" of some MPs in the emir's powers and others imposing "conditions" on helping to form a government.
"We have faced difficulties and obstacles that cannot be tolerated," he said in a speech broadcast on state television.
He accused some lawmakers of "going as far as to interfere in the heart of the prince's powers and his choice of his crown prince, forgetting that this is an explicit constitutional right of the prince."
Parliament, elected in early April, was to meet for the first time on Monday, but several MPs have refused to participate in the government.
Kuwait's constitution requires that at least one deputy hold a ministerial portfolio until the government formation is completed. But the Prime Minister-designate has been unable to convince any lawmaker to take part.
Sheikh Meshaal said the failure to form a government was the result of "the dictates and conditions of some" lawmakers.
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