Thursday, the Council of Ministers convened its inaugural session at Seif Palace following the issuance of Ministry Formation Decree No. (1) of 2024.
The constitutional oath was taken before His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and the session was led by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Muhammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, the Prime Minister, reports Al-Jarida daily.
Following the meeting, Sheikh Firas Saud Al-Malik Al-Sabah, the Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Child Affairs, and Acting Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs, provided the following statement:
“At the onset of its meeting, the Council of Ministers thoroughly examined the esteemed speech delivered by His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God protect and preserve him.
“This followed His Highness’s swearing-in ceremony on December 20, 2023, before the National Assembly. In his speech, His Highness expressed profound sorrow over the passing of the late Amir of the country, Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God bless him and grant him place in His Paradise.
“His Highness highlighted the late Amir’s significant contributions to the nation, praising his achievements and emphasizing the commitment to national unity, the nation’s progress, and adherence to constitutional principles.
“Furthermore, His Highness underscored the dedication to the rule of law, the fight against corruption, and continued collaboration with brotherly and friendly nations on various fronts.”
The Council of Ministers also took note of the directives outlined in the royal pronouncement, emphasizing the imperative need to assess the current state in terms of security, economics, and quality of life.
This aligns with the late Amir’s wishes and the need for constructive dialogue to foster optimism and a spirit of hope. The Council stressed the importance of patience in formulating laws and decisions that positively impact national interests, preserving the Kuwaiti identity, and enhancing the well-being of citizens.
Furthermore, during the meeting, the Council of Ministers extensively discussed His Highness the Amir’s recent address to the newly appointed government. His Highness emphasized a new phase of sincerity and giving, titled “reform and development,” with pillars such as work, supervision, control, and accountability.
The government was urged to set priorities, unify efforts, and develop an action plan with specific objectives and timelines. The Council highlighted the importance of open communication with the public, field tours, and media activation to address citizens’ needs within the framework of existing laws and regulations.
In his speech, Prime Minister Sheikh Dr. Muhammad Sabah Al-Salem expressed gratitude for the trust bestowed upon the new government. He pledged commitment to fighting corruption, protecting national gains, restructuring government agencies, and enhancing education and healthcare systems. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of adhering to constitutional principles and following a new approach to governance that prioritizes the nation’s interests.
Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Acting Minister of Interior, Fahd Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, affirmed the weight of the responsibilities entrusted to the ministers.
He called for a unified effort, understanding the requirements of the new era, and working collaboratively to advance national action. The government’s commitment to achieving citizens’ aspirations, improving public services, and promoting development and reform was reiterated, with a focus on justice, anti-corruption efforts, and accountability for good governance.”