Kuwait’s late leader, Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, started his time as ruler by granting amnesty and concluded his reign by pardoning people who were convicted.
Upon assuming the reins of power on September 29, 2020, Emir Nawaf initiated efforts to foster an atmosphere of reconciliation and amnesty. These endeavors led to the resolution of crises that had plagued the country during a period of political turmoil.
The late ruler also saw to the initiation of “national dialogue” sessions in September 2021 and the culmination of an amnesty project in January 2023.
By issuing a decree, Emir Nawaf pardoned 34 individuals, whether imprisoned or residing abroad.
While leading, he worked to break down corruption and dealt with key figures accused of taking public money. He did so using Kuwait’s legal system and judiciary.
Emir Nawaf earned the title of “Prince of Amnesty” for his efforts in pardon ceremonies, which included numerous parliamentarians, activists, public figures, and politicians convicted in various cases.
Notably, these cases involved the storming of the National Assembly following opposition protests in Kuwait in 2011. Among those pardoned were deputies living abroad.
In October 2021, an Emiri pardon was issued, aiming to reconcile political differences with the opposition, including activists and former MPs.
Sources indicate that Emir Nawaf called for an expansion in the number of individuals covered by this amnesty.
In November 2021, the late ruler issued two decrees for amnesty, pardoning and reducing sentences imposed on 35 people.
Amnesty granted by Emir Nawaf had a political easing effect following a period of tension due to disagreements between the government and members of the National Assembly.
Days before the passing of Emir Nawaf, the Kuwaiti judiciary concluded one of the most significant corruption cases in the country.
On November 26, 2023, Kuwait’s highest court issued its final verdict in the well-known “Army Fund” case.
It sentenced former defense and interior minister Sheikh Khalid al-Jarrah al-Sabah to seven years in prison for mishandling military funds.
Former Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber al-Mubarak al-Sabah, who faced similar charges, was ordered by the court to return the funds he mismanaged.
The Court of Cassation, presided over by Judge Sultan Bouresli, acquitted Adel Al-Enezi and fined the defendants in the case a total of 105 million Kuwaiti dinars ($340.50 million) and compelled them to repay double the amount ($681 million) misappropriated.
