Govt taken aback by threats to grill reappointed ministers

‘Inconsistent with the Constitution’

KUWAIT CITY, Nov 4: The government was taken by surprise when some MPs threatened to grill ministers who are reappointed after the formation of the new Cabinet after they take the oath of office, reports Al-Rai daily quoting reliable sources.

The sources said this is a sign of arbitrariness and lack of cooperation between the legislative and executive authorities.

The sources added this behavior is not consistent with the Constitution. Those who threaten should at least wait to see how the new ministers will deal with the issues that have been raised and whether they will be addressed if they seek reform.

In the same context, MP Ahmed Al-Fadhel said he is surprised the threats came a few hours after the speech of His Highness the Amir at the opening session who talked about the maturity of the National Assembly.

“Will it be strange if MPs submit a grilling request immediately after the formation of the new government?” Al-Fadhel asked.

“I do not think that would be strange,” he said, “if the questioning request is submitted the National Assembly will be signing a death warrant.”

Al-Fadhel said the next political scene may lead to constitutional or unconstitutional dissolution. Add to this the unpredictability.

He added the prime minister has time to choose the new ministers, the more time he has, the more guarantees we shall have on the survival of the government.