Kuwait: Islamist parties win the elections in Kuwait

Kuwait City (AsiaNews/ Agencies) – Opposition Islamists won Kuwait’s parliamentary elections, taking 34 seats out of 50, elections officials said today.

Sunni Islamists, close to Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood, won 23 seats, a record compared to the previous poll when they elected nine candidates.

Although a quota was set for women, none of the 23 female candidates were elected, including the four outgoing Members of Parliament.

Liberals lost, winning seven seats against nine in 2009.

The elections were held a year ahead of schedule following a scandal involving government lawmakers.

The protests that ensued led Emir Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah to call a snap election.

Organised by groups affiliated with the Muslim Brotherhood, the demonstrations seriously challenged the country’s royal family, a historic ally of the West, especially the United States.

Experts note that the ruling dynasty retains the real power. Yet, as one of the few elected parliaments in the Gulf region, Kuwait’s National Assembly can still challenge royal policies and pass non-confidence votes on government officials.