Cabinet approves new civil aviation law and penal code amendments

The Council of Ministers, chaired by His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah, held its weekly meeting on Tuesday at Bayan Palace and approved a series of critical legislative and administrative decisions to advance the country’s legal and institutional framework.

The Cabinet approved a draft decree-law to promulgate the Civil Aviation Law, which establishes the Public Authority of Civil Aviation, replacing the current Directorate-General of Civil Aviation.

The move is intended to align Kuwait’s aviation sector with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and enhance the country’s regulatory and operational capabilities.

The draft law, consisting of 83 articles across 13 chapters, grants the new authority full legal and administrative powers, transferring all assets, obligations, and personnel from the existing directorate. Employees will retain their positions and entitlements until the new authority issues its own personnel regulations.

The law will be submitted to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for formal approval.

The Cabinet also approved a draft decree-law amending Article 58 bis of Law No. (31) of 1970, related to the Penal Code. Under the amendment:

• Public employees who intentionally fail to enforce judicial rulings within 90 days of notification will face up to 2 years in prison and fines ranging from KD 3,000 to KD 20,000.
• If the employee abuses their authority to obstruct enforcement, the penalty is up to 1 year in prison and fines between KD 2,000 and KD 10,000.

The court may also order the dismissal of the employee. Only the Public Prosecution is authorized to investigate and prosecute such violations. If the employee complies with the ruling at any stage, the case will be dropped.

The Cabinet reviewed and approved recommendations from the Ministerial Committee for Legal Affairs regarding several draft laws, agreements, and memoranda of understanding between Kuwait and friendly nations. These initiatives aim to boost Kuwait’s international standing and enhance bilateral cooperation in multiple sectors.

Following recommendations from the Ministerial Committee for Public Services, the Cabinet approved two charitable donations:

• Zakat House for rehabilitating and equipping the Al-Sulaibiya Youth Center for Addiction Treatment.
• Patients’ Aid Society for establishing a children’s entertainment room at the Physical Medicine Hospital.

The Cabinet expressed deep gratitude for these contributions, reflecting the values of compassion and national solidarity embedded in Kuwaiti society.

The Cabinet mourned the passing of Dr. Badr Jassim Al-Yaqoub, former Minister of Information, honoring his legacy of national service and contributions to the media and cultural sectors. The Council offered condolences to his family and praised his commitment to Kuwait’s progress.

On the announcement of Grade 12 exam results for 2024/2025, the Prime Minister extended heartfelt congratulations to top-performing students and their families, acknowledging their dedication and the support of educators in achieving academic excellence.

The Cabinet also reviewed several other agenda items and referred some for further study by the relevant ministerial committees to prepare implementation procedures.