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Kuwait City: Kuwait’s upcoming parliamentary session has been met with uncertainty following the issuance of Amiri Decree No. 67/2024. The decree, signed by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, postpones the first regular session of the National Assembly’s 18th legislative term to May 14th.

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This decision has sparked debate amongst newly elected members of parliament (MPs). The delay coincides with Article 87 of the Kuwaiti Constitution. It mandates the convening of the Assembly within two weeks of the conclusion of general elections. Some MPs-elect, like Abdulkareem Al-Kandari, argue that the postponement contradicts this article.

However, others, including Ahmed Al-Saadoun, maintain that Article 106 grants the Amir the authority to postpone sessions for up to a month. Al-Saadoun emphasizes that Article 106 does not specify the timing of such a postponement within the legislative term.

Despite the postponement, several MPs-elect, including Bader Al-Dahoum and Fayez Al-Jomhour, have announced their intention to attend the originally scheduled inaugural session on April 17th. This move underscores their commitment to upholding the Assembly’s constitutional role. Also their concerns regarding the perceived lack of clarity within the executive branch.

The April 17th session is expected to be a procedural formality, with the government likely absent due to the ongoing formation process. However, this episode highlights the potential for a forthcoming clash between the legislative and executive branches in Kuwait. The coming weeks will be critical as the government takes shape and the true ramifications of the postponement become evident.