Emir Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah

December 18, 2023

Kuwait is in mourning as Emir Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah has passed away at the age of 86. The announcement, made by Sheikh Mohammed Abdullah al-Sabah, the minister of the emiri court, was aired on state television.

Official Mourning Period

While the cause of death was not disclosed, the authorities have declared a 40-day official mourning period and a three-day closure of government departments. Kuwait’s crown prince and half-brother of the late emir, Sheikh Meshaal al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah, 83, has been named as the new emir.

Legacy

Emir Sheikh Nawaf ascended to the throne in September 2020 after the death of his half-brother, Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah. Known for his modesty and a reputation as the “emir of pardons,” he had a long history of service to Kuwait. He served as defence minister during the 1990 Iraqi invasion and later as interior minister.

Contributions

During his rule, Emir Sheikh Nawaf initiated significant reconciliations, amnesties, and citizenship processes, fostering a sense of openness to the opposition. He played a pivotal role in reopening the parliament to diverse voices and diminishing the government’s role in voting for the speaker of the house.

Successor Sheikh Meshaal al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah

The new emir, Sheikh Meshaal, is described as both an “insider and an outsider.” He has been part of major decisions and government practices alongside previous emirs. Kuwait’s succession process, guided by the constitution, is expected to unfold smoothly in the coming days.

Stepping Into Leadership Amid Economic Challenges

Emir Sheikh Nawaf faced economic challenges, including a fall in oil prices and a credit rating cut in 2020. His tenure also involved navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, during which the government increased spending to address the crisis. Despite these challenges, the emir made few dramatic changes during his rule.

Personal History

Born in 1937, Sheikh Nawaf was the fifth son of Kuwait’s ruler from 1921 to 1950, Sheikh Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah. He started his political career at the age of 25 as the governor of Hawalli province.

« Previous Post Next Post »