ShareKUWAIT: Kuwaitis voiced their expectations, concerns and hopes for the future direction of the country as they voted on Thursday in the National Assembly elections. Kuwait Times spoke to some voters, who called for effective governance to accelerate development. They also praised the smooth organization of the elections.
Mohammad Hamadah: “This year there must be cooperation between the government and candidates, because this will lead to the development of the country. We must stay away from personal interests. MPs must look at the most basic service, which is providing efficient modern roads. Education must be improved, especially with regards to more infusion of the English language in the public sector. They must also improve our health services. The money spent on treatment abroad can be spent to upgrade local health services. I appreciate the efforts of the interior ministry — from the parking to the election committee, it was very smooth as always. It didn’t take more than 5 minutes.”
Omar Al-Mutairi: “Firstly, supervision and legislation on the upcoming government plan, as well as to avoid internal personal conflicts. We need candidates that are loyal to the nation. We need to develop a new political system that would reflect positively on the process of committees and voting for the speaker of the parliament. If the government is moving forward well, then candidates should cooperate to facilitate its progress. If we oppose the government on miniscule things, then the country will not move forward.
The organization of the elections has been excellent, with the leadership of the interior minister. The process was simple and quick.” Yousef Al-Jabir: “I hope people vote for the best and not someone who can provide personal interests or just because they share the same (family) name. And just like how His Highness the Amir said, that voting for the most qualified candidate is important, which is also a religious duty. I would like that candidates not insult each other, as it reflects badly on Kuwait’s reputation internationally.”
Salah Al-Mutawa: “We look for the best and we have ambitions for the best. We will remain loyal to the nation, and we wish the best for everyone.” Abdulaziz Al-Obaidan: “We hope for the best. We hope laws are legislated so we can move forward. I hope the next parliament remains without internal fighting. We would like to see a peaceful four years for the legislative branch.”
Ahmad Al-Sibea: “From the perspective of newer generations, we hope for the best, and our confidence in Allah is strong. The election process was smooth — it took only a matter of minutes to cast my vote. We hope they put the citizen first, and set their priorities for the coming years, especially at the international level, to get the development process moving. We need to prepare ourselves today for the future for the upcoming generations to benefit.”
Johar Al-Johar: “I have seen amazing organization from the interior ministry, and their assistance of people to reach their designated voting committee. Thankfully, it has gone smoothly. This is a celebration of democracy and we wish the best for everyone. I think this government has had a positive futuristic approach recently. We have noticed development in the health and education sectors. I wish them the best.”
Mohammad Al-Abaad: “We need good representatives who put the interests of the nation first and not their personal interests. We need to fix the housing crisis — it is really important. The election process was very smooth. I went at two in the afternoon and was done in less than 5 minutes. The interior ministry has done an amazing job at organizing it.”
