50,000 Kuwaiti Citizenships Revoked — Now Every File Is Under Review

Arab Times

4 days ago

KUWAIT CITY, Aug 10: As the Supreme Committee for Investigating Kuwaiti Citizenship continues its crackdown on forged and illegally obtained citizenships, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef reaffirmed that all citizenship applications are under strict scrutiny and that no exceptions will be tolerated.
Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef emphasized that every citizenship file in Kuwait is being examined with meticulous precision. The Higher Committee for the Investigation of Kuwaiti Citizenship remains deeply engaged in uncovering fraud and preserving the integrity of the nation's identity. 'This work will continue until the situation is fully rectified,' he said.
When asked whether files of former ministers, MPs, or other prominent figures are part of the investigation, Sheikh Fahad was clear: 'All of Kuwait is under scrutiny.'
He warned that the government will not tolerate anyone tampering with the country's national identity or obtaining citizenship through false statements or fraudulent means. 'The nation's supreme interest is paramount, and the rule of law will be enforced rigorously.'
Sheikh Fahad highlighted the role of international coordination in identifying numerous counterfeit citizenship cases. 'Nearly 50,000 citizenships have been revoked so far, and a new electronic version of Kuwaiti citizenship will soon be launched to enhance security,' he revealed.
Addressing the status of women whose citizenship was revoked under Article 8 of the Kuwaiti Nationality Law, Sheikh Fahd confirmed that the August deadline for amending their status will not be extended. 'Those claiming their embassies have not contacted them to complete the process should visit the office designated for Article 8 cases,' he instructed.
He further explained the government's commitment to ensuring these women receive all benefits except citizenship, provided they proactively engage with the embassies of their countries of origin. 'This is part of the state's effort to guarantee them a decent life despite the revocation of citizenship.'
Sheikh Fahad stressed the importance of timely action: failure to amend their status or demonstrate seriousness by the deadline will lead to cancellation of their Kuwaiti treatment privileges. However, this process does not impede their right to appeal decisions before the Grievance Committee for citizenship matters.
Key affirmations
There will be no compromise in strengthening Kuwait's national identity.
The investigation into citizenship files is ongoing without interruption.
The rule of law will be applied equally to all individuals.
Sheikh Fahd also touched on other pressing issues, confirming that biometric fingerprinting procedures have been enforced strictly, with all non-compliant individuals' processes suspended.
He pointed out recent measures to curb fake social media accounts that spread rumors and discord, promising the implementation of a new system to permanently ban such accounts.
Efforts are also underway to address the problem of illegal residents in Kuwait.
Reflecting on the success of the new traffic law, Sheikh Fahd noted its positive impact on reducing serious violations and fatal accidents, as well as enhancing overall road discipline. He acknowledged that if amendments are necessary, they will be made accordingly.
Regarding economic development, Sheikh Fahd mentioned that new incentives to promote tourism and attract investment have been streamlined and approved.
On local security challenges, particularly in the Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh area, the Ministry of Interior is conducting intensive campaigns targeting illegal commercial activities in residential neighborhoods. These efforts, carried out under the direct supervision of Acting Prime Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef and in coordination with other government agencies, aim to eliminate violations that threaten residents' safety and security.