Kuwait shifts Ashura mourning councils to schools to enhance safety and accessibility

As part of new security and community engagement measures, Hussainiya councils in Kuwait will this year be held in designated school premises, in coordination with the Ministry of Interior and other government institutions.

The initiative, prompted by the current regional security environment, aims to ensure the safety of mourners during the first ten days of Muharram and encourage broader participation in the annual Ashura commemorations.

In a statement to Al-Rai, Dr. Abdul Hadi Al-Saleh, custodian of the Kadhimiya (al-Bakai) Husseiniya, described the decision to relocate the councils to schools as a “unique experience” that offered many logistical and security advantages. “Our experience at the Kadhimiya Husseiniya encourages us to repeat it next year,” he said. “The school provides us with a larger and more comfortable space for the public.”

Dr. Al-Saleh emphasized that the symbolic importance of the traditional Husseiniya spaces remains intact, but the temporary shift to schools addresses practical concerns in a period of heightened caution. “The Husseiniya continues its religious and cultural role throughout the year,” he said, “but holding councils in schools or clubs ensures better crowd management and security support.”

In line with His Highness the Amir’s directives, conveyed through First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, organizers are now working closely with several authorities — including the Ministry of Education, the Kuwait Municipality, and the Kuwait Fire Force — to prepare schools and transport supplies and equipment for the events.

Al-Saleh noted that school environments provide controlled, safer spaces that ease the task of security personnel and reduce risks posed by congested public roads near traditional Husseiniya locations. “Cars mixing with large crowds made it harder to ensure security,” he said. “School campuses offer better containment and ease of access.”

He also highlighted the inclusive nature of Imam Hussein’s message, noting that public venues like schools and sports clubs help broaden public engagement. “Imam Hussein, peace be upon him, is not the property of one sect. His cause is a concern for all Muslims.”

The initiative reflects a coordinated national effort to preserve religious freedom and tradition, while prioritizing public safety and promoting inter-agency cooperation in service of the community.