Kuwait’s 86-year-old monarch is away, according to official media. Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who was hospitalised last month for an urgent medical issue, passed suddenly on Saturday. It is widely believed that Sheikh Nawaf was not well before taking office in September 2020, and he had travelled overseas for medical attention on several occasions.
It is doubtful that his passing would alter Kuwait’s energy policy. As a major member of OPEC and one of the largest oil exporters in the world, the nation often follows the example of Saudi Arabia, the de facto leader of the organisation.
“Deeply saddened to learn about the unfortunate demise of His Highness Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sadness. We extend our sincere sympathies to Kuwait’s royal family, government, and populace.
The half-brother of the current emir, Crown Prince Sheikh Mishaal Al-Ahmed Al-Sabah, who has been in charge of the majority of everyday state business, will replace him in accordance with the constitution.
