Kuwait keeps key posts unchanged in new cabinet

Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Sabah formed a new cabinet on Sunday and kept key posts unchanged.

The health minister, Sheikh Ahmad who last month was accused of financial and administrative violations was replaced.

The new cabinet introduces six new ministers including two Islamists, who join another two Islamist ministers in the 16-member government. It also includes two members of the country’s Shi’ite Muslim minority and two women.

Kuwait’s parliament has a history of challenging the cabinet in a region where the public usually plays little role in political change.

Kuwait sits on nearly 10% of global oil reserves. Cabinet changes have not tended to have a direct impact on its energy policy, which is formulated by a supreme council.

What this means for Kuwait will become clearer in the coming weeks, but for now some clarity and stability has come to a country responsible for 10% of the global oil reserves.