The Government
Kuwait became an independent and sovereign state in June 19, 1961, with the cancellation by Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Al Sabah, of the agreement signed between Kuwait and Britain in January 23, 1899. The draft Constitution, approved on November 11, 1961, describes Kuwait;s system of government as follows: "Kuwait is a fully independent Arab State with a democratic style of government, where sovereignty rests with the nation, which is the source of power." As prescribed by the Constitution, the system of government is based on the separation of powers. The legislative authority is vested exclusively in the Amir and the National Assembly, while executive power is vested exclusively in the Amir and his Cabinet and Ministers. The Constitution itself comprises 183 articles in five separate chapters. The government system is firmly based on democratic principles and incorporates positive aspects of both presidential and parliamentary systems prevalent in advanced democratic countries. The pillars of the Constitution are the sovereignty of the State, public freedom and equality before the law.
Kuwait's Amiri succession is through descendants of the late Mubarak Al Sabah and the present Amir is HH Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmad Al JAber Al Sabah. As Head of the State Sheikh Jaber exercises his authority through his ministers. The prime Minister and cabinet ministers are collectively responsible to him for the general policy of the State and each minister is individually responsible for his own ministry. The Amir also fulfills the role of Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. Laws must be approved by the National Assembly and sanctioned by the Amir before being enforced.
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