KUWAIT CITY, Jan 20: Kuwait’s ruling family agreed on Friday that Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Sabah should become amir to replace the current ruler whose first days of power have been marred by his ailing health, a family source told AFP.

The oil-rich emirate has been embroiled in political controversy since Sheikh Saad al-Abdullah al-Sabah — named amir after death on Sunday of his predecessor — has been reported incapable of taking the oath due to poor health.

“The overwhelming majority of the family came this morning to the house of Sheikh Sabah and expressed complete trust in him to become new amir in light of the health condition of the current amir,” the source said on condition of anonymity.

“Sheikh Sabah accepted the request,” during the meeting.

State-run television later showed footage of members of the family greeting Sheikh Sabah at his house.