‘Panel tied to Arab anti-terror agreement not been endorsed’
Many Arab nations voice objection to some items: Tabtabaei
KUWAIT CITY, July 5: The committee in charge of the Arab anti-terrorism agreement, which was discussed a few days ago at the Arab Parliament in Cairo, Egypt, has not been endorsed because many Arab countries voiced objection to some items in the agreement, reports Al-Rai daily quoting Arab Parliament Member Waleed Al-Tabtabaei.
In a statement to the daily, Al-Tabtabaei explained the idea has been presented for review in a bid to settle differences between countries. He said Kuwait has been rejecting the agreement in the last 20 years.
“We have been rejecting it due to certain items, but we acknowledge that terrorism is a global plague and a threat to countries and societies. We also acknowledge that there are guarantees for liberties and human rights, as well as criminal and constitutional assurance; hence, there should be a stipulation on extradition. However, we noticed some crimes overlapping with political crimes,” Al-Tabtabaei added.
He said he submitted a proposal to separate crimes related to armed violence which target the security of countries and societies from political crimes which are not violent, in addition to separation of penalties.
“For instance, the crime of violence warrants life sentence or execution; whereas a political crime warrants prison term of three to four years or less depending on the nature of the case. This explains the importance of separating these two types of crimes,” he clarified.
“The agreement is aimed at curbing terrorism and coordinating efforts of countries in fighting terrorism. We agree on this, as long as it does not contradict the Kuwaiti Constitution, while public liberties must be guaranteed,” he added.
On exchanging and sharing information among countries and experts in security and judiciary fields to combat crimes and terrorism, AlTabtabaei stressed the need for security and judicial cooperation between Arab countries.
He clarified work is not yet done, affirming that Kuwait’s comments have been taken into consideration and will be tabled for discussion; particularly the separation of political crimes from terrorism crimes.
He added the extradition of suspects will be done within a framework that does not violate the local constitution, indicating Kuwait will use these recommendations as references in reviewing the Arab antiterrorism agreement.
Meanwhile, MP Riyadh Adasani has denied the allegation of a member of the dissolved board of Kuwait Liberal Society that he filed a lawsuit against the member, affirming he stands by the decision to dissolve the board of the society, reports Al-Anba daily.
Speaking at the National Assembly’s press center, Al-Adasani affirmed his position against anyone who tries to offend Islam. He said he is ready to use his constitutional tools to bring down podiums being used to offend Islam.
“Despite the fact that some have spoken against me including a former minister and a columnist, others have expressed appreciation and gratitude for the position I took on this issue”, he added.
Al-Adasani also pointed out that some members of the dissolved board of the society claimed that the dissolution was based on political position. He said, “I will not allow reinstatement of the dissolved board. I will not allow them to continue to offend Islamic principles and stir sedition. The society has been closed as per the law.
In the meantime, Al-Adasani congratulated the residents of Jahra on the opening of a new hospital. He urged the government to ensure that the hospital is fully operational, in addition to the expansion of Adan and Amiri hospitals.
He also asked the concerned governmental authorities to specify the period for constructing and opening new hospitals like Jaber Hospital. He pointed out the Amiri Diwan constructed Jahra Hospital and the government’s role includes implementation of projects.