- Kuwait’s Emir Nawaf al-Ahmad dies
- Succeeded half-brother in 2020
- Succession speculation amid condolences
State television in Kuwait reported that Sheikh Emir Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah, the chief of Kuwait, had passed away at age 86.
The sheik assumed leadership of the oil-rich nation three years ago, succeeding Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmed al-Sabah, his half-brother.
“We mourn… the passing of Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Sabah with profound sorrow and grief,” read a statement on state television.
2020 Sheikh Nawaf ascended to the throne after being crowned crown prince in 2006.
Established in 1937, he was the fifth progeny of Sheikh Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah, the former sovereign of Kuwait.
He was the defense minister during the 1990 invasion and occupation of Kuwait by Iraq, which initiated the Gulf War. Subsequently, he assumed the position of interior minister.
In contrast to the more than a decade-long tenure of his predecessor, who exerted a significant influence over the nation’s foreign policy during that time, Sheikh Nawaf’s reign was comparatively brief.
Succession Speculations Amid Kuwait’s Political Landscape
Analysts speculate that while the 83-year-old current crown prince, Sheikh Mishal al-Ahmad al-Sabah, is positioned to ascend to the throne, some may prefer a younger monarch succeed him.
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With a population of 4.8 million, including 3.4 million foreign workers, Kuwait is a vital ally of the United States and possesses the sixth-largest known oil reserves in the world.
The emirate’s parliament has the most authority of any elected body in the Gulf, and opposition members critique the Sabahs openly.
Nevertheless, crucial executive and governmental positions remain wholly controlled by the ruling family, and the emir holds the final authority on political issues. He also has the power to dissolve or supersede parliament and convene elections.
In light of the declaration, cable networks have curtailed their regular programming.
