The royal court announced on Saturday that Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Sabah has died aged 86, after a short, three-year reign. Sheikh Nawaf was sworn in as Emir in 2020 after the death of his predecessor Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Sabah.
Sheikh Nawaf had a background in public service, serving in governmental roles and as the Kuwaiti defense minister, before his ascension to reign.
The cause of Sheikh Nawaf’s death has not been officially disclosed, though he was admitted to hospital at the end of November, for an emergency health problem, as reported by state news. The state has declared a 40-day mourning period in Kuwait, with the closure of banks, ministries and government offices for 3 days.
“With deep grief and regret, we mourn to the Kuwaiti people, the Arab and Muslim nations and friendly people demise of His Highness the Emir Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah who passed away today Saturday,” said Amiri Diwan of Kuwait in a statement carried by the Kuwaiti News Agency (KUNA).
Throughout his tenure, Sheikh Nawaf emphasized national unity and solidarity, urging the people of Kuwait to “cherish the country’s democracy and traditions” for strength and productivity, said KUNA in its tribute to Sheikh Nawaf.
