Kuwait Appoints Prime Minister as Deputy Emir in Absence of Crown Prince

On April 21, 2024, an Emiri decree was issued in Kuwait appointing Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah Al-Ahmed Al-Sabah, the Prime Minister tasked with forming the government, as the Deputy Emir during periods of the Emir's absence from the country. The decree stipulates that this procedure will continue until the appointment of a Crown Prince.

The move comes as the current Emir, Sheikh Meshal al-Ahmad al-Sabah, who was sworn in December, has yet to choose a crown prince, who would usually be his deputy. Sheikh Ahmed was appointed as Prime Minister by the country's ruler after the government's resignation earlier this month.

According to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), the Amiri Order stated that this designation would remain valid until the naming of a Crown Prince, and that the Prime Minister should comply with this Order and inform the National Assembly. The Amiri Order takes effect once published in the official gazette.

The appointment of the Prime Minister as the Deputy Emir is seen as a way to ensure continuity in the government during the Emir's absence from the country. This move also comes after a new parliament was elected, and it is a procedural one as the current government has to submit its resignation before the legislature's inauguration.

The previous caretaker Prime Minister, Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, who declined to form the new Cabinet, was also appointed Deputy Emir soon after his appointment three months ago. On the same day as the Emiri decree, the Emir also received the president of the Supreme Judicial Council and the court of cassation, as well as the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense and Acting Minister of Interior, at the Bayan Palace.

Why this matters: The appointment of the Prime Minister as Deputy Emir in the absence of a Crown Prince highlights the political transition underway in Kuwait. It underscores the importance of maintaining stability and continuity in the government during this period.

Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah Al-Ahmed Al-Sabah's designation as Deputy Emir will remain in effect until a Crown Prince is named, as stated in the Emiri decree. The Prime Minister is required to comply with the order and inform the National Assembly of this temporary appointment to ensure the smooth functioning of the government during the Emir's absence from Kuwait.

Key Takeaways

• Kuwait's Emir appoints PM as Deputy Emir during his absence.
• This is a temporary measure until a Crown Prince is named.
• The PM must inform the National Assembly of this appointment.
• The move aims to ensure government continuity during the Emir's absence.
• This follows the recent election of a new parliament in Kuwait.