Minister of information calls on young figures to nominate

Upcoming parliamentary elections constitute some of the most crucial events in history of democracy in Kuwait for the polls are forecast to result in substantial change of the National Assembly formation, possibly at a proportion of 70 percent, said the Minister of Information on Sunday. Sheikh Hamad Jaber Al-Ali, in a statement to journalists while inspecting the electoral supervision authority, called on "veteran" candidates and MPs to "give way for the youth to serve the country," citing the example of the former speaker of the assembly, Jassem Al-Kharafi, whose intention was to give a chance to a younger figure to serve in the top parliament seat. The ministry of information and the national media establishments are responsible for portraying "an honorable picture of the democracy in Kuwait," in line with recommendations of His Highness the Amir in this regard. Affirming readiness of the ministry and the affiliate departments and authorities, namely Kuwait Television, to cover the polls, Sheikh Hamad said, "We will interact (with the event) and we won't be mere spectators ... and we have substantial potentials for covering the events of the elections." He urged the citizens to take part in the electoral process for sake of choosing the most qualified to serve in the assembly, and called on all candidates to air their views and pledges via the official television station. Addressing HH the Amir, the minister assured His Highness that he and the ministry staff would be quite helpful to ensure success of the polling process. "I would like to say to the Amir that we will help you for ensuring success of this great democratic ceremony." Sheikh Hamad Jaber Al-Ali expressed gratitude to the Kuwait Transparency Society and Kuwait Journalists Association for aiding the authorities in the electoral process, noting that the transparency association was tasked with examining implementation of the laws of the audio-visual media. On re-opening office of Al-Jazeera television channel, the minister indicated that it would resume its work in the country following completion of some paper works. "Kuwait will witness a new and unprecedented era of media openness," he added.