Kuwait’s government has been locked in a political battle with parliament that has paralysed political life in the Gulf country for much of the past year.
“Some members (of parliament) have continued to adopt confrontational stances with the government and to interfere in the jurisdictions of its ministers… expanding the rift between them,” said the resignation letter signed by Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Mubarak Al Sabah and carried by state news agency KUNA. "My colleagues and I … put our resignations at your disposal so that your highness can decide what is appropriate."
Parliament has repeatedly grilled ministers over their conduct, which has resulted in several resignations. Kuwait has yet to name an oil minister to replace Badr Al Humaidhi, who resigned days after his appointment in November under pressure from hostile deputies.
"It is unfortunate that we face obstructive positions and practices… and a deviation in the concept of parliamentary representation," Sheikh Jaber said. The Emir H H Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, who has the last say in politics, is abroad. He has repeatedly urged deputies and the government to work together for the sake of the country, but to little avail.
Political sources said the move might prompt the country’s ruler to dissolve parliament because the cabinet had already been reshuffled and this had failed to break the deadlock.
For the resignation to come into effect, the prime minister would now have to present it to the deputy emir, who is in charge of the country in the ruler’s absence, who would then have to approve it.
Jaber Al Muhelbi, an Islamist MP, blamed the government for the breakdown in cooperation between the two branches of government and said it was high time for a new parliament.
"The government in my opinion is weak… the government is not cooperating," he said. "I’d welcome a dissolution of parliament if it’s for citizens’ benefit."
Parliament’s financial committee on Sunday demanded another pay rise for public servants despite a raise in February to counter high inflation.
