Row rages over rumored election law changes – Liberals call for legalizing parties, election commission

Source: Khaleej Times (Read full story)

KUWAIT: Two key liberal groups called yesterday for important democratic reforms that include establishing an independent election commission, legalising political parties and issuing legislation to combat corruption as part of democratic reforms necessary to resolve the political deadlock in the country. The National Democratic Alliance, an umbrella group of liberals, and the Kuwait Democratic Forum, made the calls in a joint statement which insisted that these are essential demands to gradually achieving a full parliamentary system of governance after 50 years of democracy.

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Drive to speed up reform in Oman in wake of protests

Source: Gulfnews (Read full story)

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The council’s recommendations include extending regulations barring employees from working outside in the summer when the temperature tops 50 degrees Celsius (122 Fahrenheit). These regulations, which allow workers to stop work from 12:30 to 15:30, do not apply to oil sector workers.

The council is also pushing to ensure that labour courts speed up rulings on disputes between workers and employers.

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Qassim regional airport named after Prince Naif

Source: Arab News (Read full story)

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah has renamed the Qassim Regional Airport in Buraidah as the Prince Naif bin Abdul Aziz Airport.

“The king’s order perpetuates the memory of Prince Naif who dedicated his life to his religion, king and nation,” said Qassim Gov. Prince Faisal bin Bandar in a statement.

Prince Naif, who died in Geneva on June 16, 2012, following an illness, was the Kingdom’s crown prince, deputy premier and minister of interior.
The king’s gesture indicates the depth of his love and regard toward the late prince, the governor said.

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