Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah, the emir of Kuwait, has passed away at the age of 86, according to Kuwait's state news agency. The announcement was made by Sheikh Mohammed Abdullah Al Sabah, the minister of his emiri court, who expressed condolences to the Kuwaiti people, Islamic and Arab nations, and the people of the world. Sheikh Nawaf's reign began in 2020 amidst political infighting and paralysis within the country. One of his first acts as emir was to appoint his half-brother, Sheikh Mishal al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah, as his crown prince. This appointment stirred controversy, with critics seeing it as a move towards a risk-averse gerontocracy rather than embracing generational change.
On Saturday, Kuwait's cabinet officially named Sheikh Mishal as the new emir, while also declaring a 40-day mourning period. However, a new crown prince has not yet been appointed, leaving the line of succession uncertain. Under Sheikh Nawaf's predecessor, Kuwait played a significant role in regional diplomacy, mediating disputes such as the Saudi Arabia-Qatar rift. As a member of OPEC and the Gulf Cooperation Council, Kuwait has been an important American ally and seen as a moderating influence in the region. However, Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's increasing involvement in Middle Eastern affairs has shifted the dynamics in the region.
Despite Kuwait's vast oil wealth, the country has faced economic and cultural stagnation in recent years. However, it remains a unique case in the Gulf, allowing greater freedom of expression and maintaining a more significant elected Parliament. Kuwait achieved independence from Britain in 1961 and has since accumulated enormous riches, with its sovereign wealth fund estimated at $803 billion. Sheikh Nawaf, born on June 25, 1937, in Kuwait City, came from a ruling family with a long history of leadership in the country. He served in various government positions, including minister of defense, before becoming emir.
During his reign, Sheikh Nawaf faced political stalemate and frustration among Kuwait lawmakers, compounded by economic challenges caused by falling oil prices and the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the inauguration of the 2023 Parliament brought greater cooperation between the government and Parliament, leading to the passage of new legislation addressing economic and social issues. Additionally, Sheikh Nawaf issued three rounds of pardons aimed at national reconciliation, granting amnesty to political dissidents, former members of Parliament, and members of the ruling family.
Sheikh Nawaf's death was announced on Kuwait state television, accompanied by Quranic verses. No cause of death was provided, but it had been previously reported that he had traveled to the United States for medical checks in 2021. As Kuwait awaits the ascension of Sheikh Meshal as the new emir, the country faces challenges such as political disputes, economic struggles, and the need for internal reforms. Nevertheless, Kuwait remains a vital player in the region, with strong ties to the United States and a unique political landscape that allows for more open expression and parliamentary oversight.
