Kuwaitis infected by COVID-19 eligible to vote in elections

Kuwait City: During the weekly Monday meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers, it was announced that the Fatwa and Legislation Department concluded everybody has the constitutional right to participate in the election process.

The Department stated voting is an inherent right guaranteed by the constitution, provided the election process is organised within the framework of clear procedures and requirements that are seriously adhered to in order to protect the safety of the participants and the public from the possibility of being exposed to COVID-19.

A few weeks ago, the election committee referred to the question of whether Kuwaitis infected with COVID-19 can participate in upcoming elections scheduled for December 5. The reason why the decision was referred to the department is because of a law that stipulates that individuals who are quarantining are not able to leave their homes, as it is punishable by imprisonment or fine.

It is still unclear if coronavirus positive patients will vote at the designated voting booth or if there will be an alternative method.