The recent disrespectful attitude displayed by Islamist MPs against national symbols is not a new phenomenon. It is not the Islamist MPs that specialize in expressing such behavior, as many believe. It is the result of a system that has been in existence since the 1976 Parliament dissolution. Tribal allegiances run deep in a society at the expense of patriotism.

Despite calls made about the need to commit to the Constitution and a democratic system, the government, even the society are unable to address the need to contain sectarianism. Although many wish to transform Kuwait into a financial and perhaps touristic hub of the region, sectarianism continues to spread. The results of the recent Parliament elections contradict with democratic principles. Speaking of which, it was an Islamist MP who swore-in with a different oath during Parliament’s inaugural session, violating Article 91 of the Constitution. Yet, this was allowed to happen because other MPs were restrained by their ‘religious upbringing!’

Many legislators criticize their colleagues’ ‘unpatriotic practices’ of disrespecting the Kuwaiti flag and national anthem. They overlook the government’s practices which are even more dangerous. These practices allow loyalty to religious and tribal values. The government sponsors religious competitions and ignores other activities. It pardons criminals who memorize verses from the Holy Book, not because they read and understood the state’s laws and constitutional regulations. It promotes Salafists’ publications openly while censoring books of science, literature and arts.

Do not blame MPs Mohammad Hayef, Waleed Al-Tabtabaei because they are either the product of the government’s education or are simply reaping what the government has sown.- Al-Qabas

By Abdullatif Al-Duaij