Kuwait
The Kuwaiti Ministry of Justice has announced a temporary suspension of arrest warrants for debtors, citing the current national situation. This measure aims to alleviate pressure on individuals facing financial difficulties during these challenging times.
On March 11, 2026, the Ministry of Justice issued a press release stating that services related to "Request for Arrest of a Debtor" and "Arrest Warrants" on the unified government e-services application "Sahel" and the ministry’s electronic portal will be unavailable until further notice. This decision comes in response to the ongoing national crisis, which has significantly impacted the financial stability of many citizens.
The suspension affects the following services:
These services will remain inaccessible until the situation stabilizes. However, all other electronic services provided by the Ministry of Justice will continue to operate as usual.
Minister of Justice, Counselor Nasser Al-Sumait, emphasized that this measure is temporary and aims to provide relief to individuals struggling with debt during the current crisis. He assured that normal procedures would resume once the national situation improves.
As a result of this suspension, arrest warrants have been lifted in 371 enforcement cases, including 53 involving debtors who were previously imprisoned. This move is expected to provide immediate relief to many individuals facing legal actions due to unpaid debts.
This decision reflects the government's commitment to balancing the enforcement of legal obligations with compassion during times of national hardship. It also underscores the importance of adapting legal procedures to accommodate extraordinary circumstances, ensuring that justice is served while considering the well-being of citizens.
The public has largely welcomed this initiative, viewing it as a necessary step to support those affected by the current crisis. Legal experts have also praised the Ministry's approach, highlighting the importance of flexibility in the legal system during unprecedented times.
In conclusion, the temporary suspension of debtor arrest warrants by the Kuwaiti Ministry of Justice represents a significant move to provide relief to individuals facing financial challenges during the national crisis. This measure not only alleviates immediate legal pressures on debtors but also demonstrates the government's responsiveness to the needs of its citizens in difficult times.
