Kuwait Mourns Emir Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad Al-Sabah

In a solemn announcement broadcasted on Kuwaiti state television, the royal court confirmed the passing of Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, the 86-year-old emir of the oil-rich nation.

The news follows his three-year tenure in power, marked by significant challenges, including navigating an economic crisis triggered by the 2020 fall in oil prices.

“With great sadness and sorrow, we mourn… the death of Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Emir of the State of Kuwait,” expressed the official statement aired on state television, which had interrupted its regular programming for the somber occasion.

The announcement was preceded by a broadcast of Koranic recital, underscoring the gravity of the moment.

In November, Sheikh Nawaf’s health had raised concerns when he was admitted to the hospital for an “emergency health problem,” as reported by the official KUNA news agency. Although details of his illness were not disclosed, he was later declared to be in stable condition, prompting ongoing vigilance due to his advanced age.

The late emir assumed the role of crown prince in 2006, appointed by his half-brother Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. He then ascended to the position of emir in September 2020 following Sheikh Sabah’s passing at the age of 91.

Sheikh Nawaf faced the formidable task of steering the country’s economy through the challenges posed by the sharp decline in oil prices.

The eyes of the nation now turn to Sheikh Mishal al-Ahmad al-Sabah, the 83-year-old current crown prince and another half-brother of the late emir. Speculation looms over whether a younger ruler from the family’s ranks will be chosen to address the evolving needs of Kuwait.

Kuwait, a conservative nation where ruling powers are concentrated within the Al Sabah family, hosts the most active and influential parliament in the Gulf. However, persistent conflicts between elected lawmakers and cabinet ministers appointed by the ruling family have hindered development efforts and discouraged potential investors.

The ongoing political deadlock, marked by resignations of governments and dissolved parliaments, has resulted in Kuwait’s fifth cabinet within a year.

This political turbulence has impeded essential reforms, leading to the stagnation of development projects, a crumbling infrastructure, and dissatisfaction among a significant portion of the population.

Born in 1937, Sheikh Nawaf commenced his political journey at the age of 25 as the governor of Hawalli province. His tenure extended to 1978, when he assumed the role of interior minister, marking a decade of service in the position.