The Kuwait Lawyers Association has called on the Civil Service Bureau to direct government agencies to allow licensed lawyers to accompany employees during disciplinary investigations and trials. The association said legal representation is an important safeguard for protecting employees’ rights and ensuring their ability to present an effective defense.
In a memorandum addressed to Civil Service Bureau President Dr Essam Al-Rabiean, the association said some government agencies currently prevent lawyers from attending disciplinary investigations, arguing that there is no specific law requiring them to allow legal representatives. The association rejected this reasoning, saying the absence of an explicit provision does not prevent employees from seeking legal assistance. It also referred to Article 55 of the Civil Service Law, which requires an employee to be informed of the allegations, heard and given an opportunity to present a defense before disciplinary action is imposed.
The association stressed that disciplinary investigations should follow principles of due process, fairness and proper legal safeguards. It said employees should be allowed to consult licensed lawyers who can monitor procedures, help prepare their defense and ensure that their legal rights are respected. The association also cited judicial principles requiring employees to be informed of allegations, confronted with evidence and given an opportunity to defend themselves and call relevant witnesses.
