VOA News
13 Jul 2003, 11:55 UTC
The emir of Kuwait has appointed a new prime minister, separating the position from the crown prince for the first time since independence in 1961.
The move is seen as a step toward democratic reforms and comes in the wake of parliamentary elections that saw losses for liberals, and gains for Islamists and pro-government lawmakers.
The new prime minister is 74-year-old Sheik Sabah al-Ahmed al-Sabah, the brother of the emir, Sheik Jaber al-Ahmed al-Sabah.
The incoming head of government has served as Kuwait's foreign minister and deputy prime minister. He has largely been running the country since 1997, when Crown Prince Sheik Saad al-Abdulla al-Sabah became ill and spent long periods of time abroad for medical treatment.
The 72-year-old Sheik Saad retains the position of crown prince - a post he has held since 1978.
Sunday's landmark decree asks the new prime minister to name a cabinet, which must be in place by Saturday when Kuwait's new parliament will begin its work.
The old cabinet resigned a week ago in a routine move after legislative elections.
Some information for this report provided by AFP, Reuters and AP.
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