Sheikh Mishal also announces the suspension of some articles of the Constitution amidst an ongoing impasse.
Kuwait’s emir has dissolved parliament and taken over some of its functions, state media reported, weeks after the Gulf country held elections.
Emir Sheikh Mishal al-Ahmad al-Sabah and the royally appointed cabinet will take over some powers from the 50-member National Assembly, he said on Friday in a speech broadcast on state television.
He also suspended some unspecified articles of the Constitution for “a period not exceeding four years,” without elaborating.
“The unhealthy atmosphere experienced by Kuwait in previous years encouraged the spread of corruption to reach most state facilities and, unfortunately, reached economic and security institutions,” said the 83-year-old ruler, adding that “it even affected the system of justice.”
“We face difficulties and obstacles that cannot be tolerated,” he said.
The April elections were the first held under the command of Sheikh Mishal, who came to power last December after the death of his half-brother and predecessor, Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah.
Repeated disputes between the National Assembly and the cabinet triggered the dissolution of parliament, restricting investment and reforms aimed at reducing the country’s dependence on oil revenues.
Parliament was to meet for the first time on Monday, but several politicians refused to participate in the government.
The emir said the failure to form a government was the result of “the dictates and conditions of some” lawmakers.
“Kuwait has been going through difficult times lately… which leaves no room for hesitation or delay in taking the difficult decision to save the country and secure its highest interests,” Sheikh Mishal said.
This story originally appeared on Aljazeera.com read the full story
