Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah Wednesday pledged to be a “loyal citizen” for his nation and people, and underlined that executive and legislative authorities should cooperate to serve best interest of Kuwait.
“Today I have become head of the state and I pledge to the Kuwaiti people through you to be a loyal citizen for his nation and people, keen on the interest of the nation, keen on national unity,” as well as development, progress and prosperity, Sheikh Mishal said in a speech before the parliament, after being sworn in as the 17th ruler of Kuwait.
“The task is heavy and the oath is great,” he said, in a report from state news agency KUNA.
In his first speech after being sworn in as the new head of state, the emir said ‘it was necessary to review Kuwait’s current reality, especially in terms of security, economy and living conditions.’
“I have stressed in my previous speeches that there are national obligations that must be fulfilled. We have not noticed any change or correction” from parliament and cabinet, he added.
Instead, the two entities have “harmed the interests of the people and the country,” he said.
Sheikh Mishal pledged to temporarily halt promotions and new appointments, after already signing a decree on December 5 ordering a three-month pause in state hiring that is open to extension.
“We have warned on many occasions that crises, challenges and dangers surround us,” he said, underscoring “the necessity to reconsider our current reality in all its aspects”.—KUNA
