Kuwait City – In a move that has stirred considerable debate, the State of Kuwait has revoked the citizenship of prominent Islamic scholar and preacher, Tariq Al-Suwaidan. The decision, formalized through an Emiri decree published in the official gazette, Kuwait Al-Youm, marks a significant development in the country’s citizenship policies.
The Emiri Decree, numbered 227 for the year 2025, bears the signature of the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. It was reportedly issued based on a proposal from the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, and subsequently approved by the Council of Ministers. The decree stipulates the “revocation of Kuwaiti citizenship from Tariq Mohammed Al-Saleh Al-Suwaidan, and from all those who acquired citizenship through him by dependency,” seemingly referring to his family members.
While the decree does not explicitly cite the legal basis for the revocation, Kuwaiti authorities have previously stated that citizenship can be revoked in cases of dual nationality, fraud, misrepresentation, or for reasons pertaining to the supreme interests of the country. Article 13 of the Kuwaiti Nationality Law outlines several circumstances under which citizenship can be withdrawn, including instances where it is deemed necessary for the state’s supreme interest or external security, or if there is evidence of promoting principles that could undermine the country’s economic or social order.
Al-Suwaidan, 70, has faced various accusations in recent years. Last year, the Public Prosecution in Kuwait reportedly charged him with offenses related to insulting a Gulf state and an Arab nation on social media platforms. Although a criminal court acquitted Al-Suwaidan of these charges in July 2024, the Public Prosecution appealed the verdict.
Born in Kuwait City in 1953, Al-Suwaidan is a well-known Islamic preacher, researcher, and expert in management and leadership. He holds a doctorate in petroleum engineering from the University of Tulsa in the United States. He gained prominence through his television programs focusing on Islamic history and human development, and has been known for his ties to the Muslim Brotherhood.
Prior to this, Al-Suwaidan held the position of Director of Al-Resalah TV channel.
