Gulf | Kuwait
Kuwait bars activists from meetings without permit
Kuwaiti political activists accused the government on Thursday of clamping down on their ability to hold meetings ahead of next month's parliamentary elections.
- AP
- Published: 21:43 April 11, 2008
Kuwait City: Kuwaiti political activists accused the government on Thursday of clamping down on their ability to hold meetings ahead of next month's parliamentary elections.
Kuwait's Cabinet on Monday amended a law to say any group must give the local governor 10 days' notice before holding public meetings. Governors would have the right to object to any meetings, and the organisers would be allowed to take the matter to court. The amendment still must pass parliament.
On Thursday, representatives of a dozen Kuwaiti civic associations said the amendment contradicts the country's 1962 constitution that guarantees freedoms.
"If the law is implemented, it will transform Kuwait from a democratic country to an oppressive country," said Rola Dashti, an economist and women's rights activist.
Shaikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, Emir of Kuwait, dissolved the legislature last month, but interim lawmakers have the right to reject any laws made by the Cabinet until elections can be held May 17.
The amendments make it illegal for non-Kuwaitis to take part in demonstrations, and give police the right to attend them. It also punishes organisers without permit for their gatherings with up to three years in prison.
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