THE PALM TREE DIES STANDING STILL

During times of resilience, pride, resistance, and unwavering commitment, death is regarded as an honorable fate. The ancient proverb likening the palm tree to this concept states that it dies while still standing tall. Regrettably, in our country, the palm tree was vanquished while remaining upright. The prevalent occurrence of tree deaths, particularly palm trees, during this summer demands attention and prompts us to question the underlying causes. Are the issues related to insufficient maintenance of the irrigation networks or a scarcity of appropriately treated irrigation water? A group of respected parliament members have suggested to the government the creation of companies aimed at investing in street trees. This proposal, which I will partly mention due to its peculiar nature, was put forth by these deputies “Article 1: Companies shall be established under the provisions of this law as Kuwaiti public shareholding companies in accordance with Islamic Sharia, with their headquarters in Kuwait. Their purpose is to green public streets and desired locations and sell various types of animal feed.” Our acquaintances have expressed their desire to establish agricultural companies, which traditionally focus on engaging in productive activities, generating profits, and distributing dividends. However, it seems puzzling to envision how a company can profit from street trees. The only conceivable scenario would involve a cycle of planting trees, followed by the government’s destruction of those trees, and then purchasing new ones repeatedly. This appears to be the sole pathway to attain profitability, as there are no other viable options. Regarding the trade of animal feed, my understanding is that such products are subsidized. Therefore, it raises questions about how these companies intend to offer feed at a cheaper price than the government. Otherwise, it suggests a potential plan to eliminate the subsidies and involve citizens with these companies instead. Our country’s trees, neglected and suffering from thirst, continue to perish while remaining on their feet, emitting mournful cries. According to an activist’s account, a staggering one million trees in Kuwait are dying due to an explosion in the irrigation pipeline and the absence of a responsible irrigation company. I cannot ascertain the accuracy of this information or if there are other contributing factors. However, the bitter reality remains that our trees, except for the Conocarpus tree, are succumbing. This malevolent tree, much like some individuals in our country, possesses the ability to fend for itself. Its robust roots effortlessly disrupt infrastructure to access water, leaving us with the task of mending what it has destroyed. It stands as the solitary green presence in our streets. Let us collectively ponder, and ideally, through a parliamentary inquiry, question the cost incurred by the state for these trees. How much has been spent on their maintenance and water supply over the past five decades? I believe the figure is staggering, leading me to question whether this constitutes a misuse and squandering of the state’s finances and resources. In conveying my message to my brethren in the National Assembly, who face allegations of being corrupt businessmen, I propose considering another accusation against certain negligent state employees. These individuals are no less detrimental than dishonest traders. Furthermore, I direct a query to my esteemed leaders within the state: Where do you reside? Have you experienced living in a meticulously planned city with clean streets, flourishing greenery, well-maintained hospitals, and a splendid airport, shielding you from witnessing and enduring the hardships faced by the citizens? Dear all, as you commute to your workplaces, do you not observe the potholes, treacherous bumps, withered trees, and the overall deteriorated state of our country? Moreover, when you visit neighboring or even Arab nations where Kuwait has played a role in funding their infrastructure, do you not witness their cleanliness, organization, and profound commitment to environmental preservation? Are you not affected by these sights and the squandering of our national resources? I implore each and every individual in this nation to reflect upon this question: Do we owe Kuwait anything less than our best efforts?

Stay safe.