Kuwait to reinforce major legislative reforms to strengthen rule of law, transparency

As part of its strategy to reinforce integrity, transparency, and the rule of law, Kuwait has launched a wide-ranging legislative update.

The Cabinet approved several draft laws and decisions to protect public funds, combat corruption, and enhance digital judicial services, according to Al-Rai daily.

The following are the key reforms:

• Amendments to the Penal Code to tighten penalties for manslaughter, fraud, and debt evasion, with tougher consequences for debtors who falsely claim insolvency.
• Electronic notifications of court judgments to speed up litigation and improve accessibility.
• Easier collection of criminal fines, allowing installment payments over five years.
• Restoration of detention powers for defaulting debtors through amendments to the Bankruptcy Law.
• Enhanced powers for the Enforcement Department to monitor and act against financially capable but non-compliant debtors.
• Strengthening of Nazaha (Anti-Corruption Authority) by expanding its oversight and updating financial disclosure rules.
• Judicial system modernization, including extending appeal periods and enabling electronic notifications of criminal case summonses.
• Real estate market transparency boosted by new rules requiring verified bank transfers for transactions to combat money laundering.
• Reduction of life imprisonment to 20 years, supporting rehabilitation efforts within correctional facilities.
• Launch of the new Palace of Justice to support Kuwait’s shift toward digital and streamlined judicial services.

These legislative updates align with Kuwait’s broader vision for institutional reform, justice system modernization, and the promotion of Kuwait Vision 2035 goals.