Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah has ascended to the throne as Kuwait's new emir, succeeding the late Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Sabah, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 86.
The eighth son of Sheikh Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Sheikh Mishal brings a wealth of experience and a nuanced approach to governance.
Born on September 27, 1940, into the esteemed Sheikhdom of Kuwait, Sheikh Mishal inherits a legacy of leadership. As the paternal younger half-brother of three successive emirs—Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah—his familial ties to the throne are deeply rooted.
Educational journey and public service
After completing his primary education at Kuwait's Al Mubarakiya School, Sheikh Mishal pursued higher education in the United Kingdom, graduating from the Hendon Police College in 1960. He then embarked on a distinguished career in public service, contributing significantly to the Ministry of Interior (MOI) in Kuwait.
In 2006, Sheikh Mishal emerged as one of the top three decision-makers within the Al-Sabah royal family. Despite opportunities to assume more prominent roles, he reportedly chose to decline to steer clear of political disputes, prioritizing family relationships over political prominence.
On April 17, 2023, Crown Prince Mishal, prior to assuming the title of emir, made a significant announcement regarding the dissolution of the Kuwait National Assembly. Citing legal authority granted to the emir, Sheikh Mishal addressed the nation in a televised speech, attributing the move to political turmoil and an impasse in the country.
International representation
Beyond the borders of Kuwait, Sheikh Mishal has represented the nation in key international events, including the 2023 wedding of Hussein, the Crown Prince of Jordan, and the 2022 state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Abbey in London. His involvement in such high-profile gatherings underscores Kuwait's commitment to global diplomacy and its role on the international stage.
As Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah takes the helm as the new emir, the nation watches with anticipation and optimism, hopeful for a continued era of stability and progress under his leadership. The dissolution of the National Assembly sets the stage for potential political reforms, signaling a pivotal moment in Kuwait's political landscape.
