Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Nawaf passes away at 86, official mourning announced

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Kuwait’s ruler, Emir Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, has passed away, the country’s leaders announced on Saturday.

Kuwait has announced an official mourning for 40 days and the closure of official departments for three days.

Kuwait Council of Ministers announces closure of government departments for three days, 40-day mourning after passing of Amirhttps://t.co/9JDMjnA1rk#KUNA #KUWAIT pic.twitter.com/5zFot8Dtio

— Kuwait News Agency – English Feed (@kuna_en) December 16, 2023

State news agency WAM reported that Kuwait’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Ahmad Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, chaired an extraordinary cabinet meeting following the passing away of the Emir.

“With great sorrow, the Council of Ministers expresses deep condolences with the passing away of our father, leader of our march His Highness the Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who passed away following a journey of dedication and loyalty to his nation and its people,” the Prime Minister said.

Kuwait’s new emir

Kuwait’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs and Minister of State for National Assembly Affairs, Essa Al-Kanderi, said in a statement that Kuwait’s Crown Prince Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah would be the Emir of the State of Kuwait.