KUWAIT CITY, June 16 : In a decisive ruling that reaffirmed public confidence in justice and the rule of law, Kuwait’s Criminal Court on Sunday sentenced the murderer of traveler Hani Al-Moussawi to death. The verdict was delivered during a session presided over by Judge Nayef Al-Dahoum, following the defendant’s confession to the premeditated killing—an act the court described as deeply rooted in malicious intent and representative of dangerous criminal behavior.
The court rejected the defense’s argument that the accused suffered from paranoid delusional disorder, rendering him incapable of criminal responsibility. Relying on a comprehensive medical evaluation conducted by the Kuwait Center for Mental Health, the court confirmed that the defendant was fully mentally competent at the time of the crime.
The forensic report concluded that the defendant’s mental disorder did not impair his ability to perceive the nature of his actions or to distinguish right from wrong. The medical panel found no causal link between his psychological condition and the murder, stating that he retained full cognitive awareness and the capacity for judgment.
“The court is assured by the conclusions of the expert committee and is convinced that the defendant committed the crime with full awareness, intention, and deliberation,” the verdict stated. It further emphasized that the defendant had confessed freely and without coercion during the Public Prosecution’s investigation, admitting that he had intentionally and methodically taken the life of Hani Al-Moussawi.
The ruling underscored the legal and moral gravity of the crime, describing premeditated murder as one of the most egregious violations against humanity. “This crime reflects a deep-rooted moral depravity and presents a serious threat to the safety of society,” the judgment noted. “Retribution in such cases is essential—not only as a punishment but also as a deterrent to those who may contemplate similar acts.”
In its closing remarks, the court highlighted the broader social implications of the crime: “The accused committed an act of cold-blooded aggression with no regard for consequences. His punishment must serve as a message to all those who might seek to destroy the sanctity of human life. Upholding justice is essential for protecting society, preserving life, and reinforcing the rule of law.”
The decision was welcomed by the victim’s family and legal team. Lawyer Hassan Al-Moussawi, representing the heirs of the deceased, expressed his gratitude for the swift and just ruling. “May the soul of Hani Al-Moussawi rest in peace,” he said. “This ruling is a testament to the strength of the Kuwaiti legal system. We deeply appreciate the solidarity shown by Kuwaiti society, which stood by the victim’s family in condemning this brutal and inhumane act.”
Al-Moussawi added that the legal proceedings were conducted with fairness and transparency, ensuring the rights of all parties, including the accused. “Throughout this process, we have remained committed to justice, confident that the truth would prevail—and it has.”