By Mohammad Tarique Saleem
As Kuwait gears up for its upcoming parliamentary elections, the political landscape is buzzing with activity. On March 12, the ninth day of the registration period for candidates, a total of 17 individuals threw their hats into the ring, further intensifying the race. This surge brings the total number of candidates to 219, with seven of them being women—a notable representation in a traditionally male-dominated arena. However, this figure also highlights the need for greater gender inclusivity in Kuwait’s political sphere.
The new entrants represent various constituencies, each bringing their own perspectives and agendas to the table. In the Second Constituency, three men Mohammad Al-Mutair, Abdulwahab Al-Qattan, and Bandar Mubarak Al-Mutairi have joined the fray. Meanwhile, the Third Constituency saw the registration of two men, Madhi Ibrahim Al-Khamees and Abdullah Al-Hendal. However, it’s in the Fourth Constituency where the majority of registrations occurred, with 11 men and one woman stepping up to participate in the democratic process.
Among the candidates, voices advocating for political stability and governmental accountability are prominent. Madhi Al-Khamees from the Third Constituency emphasized the importance of a cohesive government agenda with a clear timetable. He expressed concerns over political instability, citing the frequent changes in government formations over recent years, which he believes have hindered progress and development.
Former Deputy National Assembly Speaker Mohammad Al-Mutair, a contender from the Fourth Constituency, echoed similar sentiments, calling for the prosecution of corrupt individuals rather than burdening the populace. He stressed the importance of supporting candidates committed to reform and urged voters to remain engaged beyond election day to ensure accountability and effectiveness in legislative endeavors.
Mubarak Al-Hajraf, another former MP and candidate from the Fourth Constituency, called for increased voter participation to shape the country’s future. He advocated for a shift towards a popularly elected prime minister, signaling a desire for political reforms to address long-standing grievances and minimize internal disputes.
Several candidates highlighted specific policy concerns and legislative priorities. Askar Al-Anzi, also from the Fourth Constituency, urged government action on issues such as cost-of-living allowances and zero-interest loans for retirees. He criticized the accuracy of past election results and cautioned against the spread of misinformation, emphasizing the importance of informed citizenry.
Meanwhile, Nawal Saleh Aba Al-Khail, the lone female candidate in the Fourth Constituency, emphasized her commitment to representing the working class and addressing socio-economic challenges faced by citizens. Her candidacy reflects a growing awareness of the need for diverse representation in Kuwait’s political landscape.
As the election campaign unfolds, these candidates will engage in debates, outreach efforts, and grassroots mobilization to garner support from voters. The outcome of the elections will not only shape the composition of Kuwait’s parliament but also influence the trajectory of the nation’s political and socio-economic development.
In the midst of heightened political activity, Kuwaiti citizens have a crucial role to play in shaping their country’s future. By actively participating in the electoral process and making informed decisions, they can contribute to building a more inclusive and responsive democracy. The upcoming parliamentary elections offer an opportunity for Kuwait to reaffirm its commitment to democratic principles and chart a course towards a more prosperous and equitable future.