Kuwait: Activists to protest in Kuwait City April 19

Event

Activists plan to protest in Irada Square, Kuwait City, from 21:30 April 19. The purpose of the demonstration is to demand electoral reform, partly in response to an April 17 announcement by Crown Prince Sheikh Meshal al-Ahmad al-Sabah to dissolve the National Assembly (parliament). Dozens to hundreds of individuals could attend the event.

Officials are likely to deploy some security personnel to monitor the action. Some localized ground travel disruptions are likely if protesters attempt to march along nearby road routes. Violence is unlikely, but low-level confrontations between demonstrators and police are possible if participants ignore orders to disperse.

Context

Kuwait's parliament is arguably the most vocal and active in the region, with opposition members openly criticizing the ruling Al-Sabah family. The country's parliament is also one of the most fractious and unstable, with continuous infighting preventing the passage of important economic reforms. Near-constant hostility between the executive and the elected legislature has contributed to government instability.

The latest announcement to dissolve Kuwait's parliament reflects the country's complex political landscape and the ongoing struggle for power and influence between the ruling Al-Sabah family, its supporters, and a myriad of opposition groups.

Advice

Avoid the protest due to the potential for clashes. Heed the advice of security personnel. Allow additional time if traveling through the affected area April 19.