Police in Kuwait clash with anti-government protesters

Police in Kuwait have used tear gas and stun grenades to disperse anti-government protesters defying orders not to stage marches through the capital, according to witnesses.

Authorities said protesters were allowed to gather outside parliament to protest against changes in voting rules for elections set for December 1. But other groups broke away and staged defiant processions through Kuwait City.

Witnesses said police used tear gas and stun grenades in sporadic clashes with the marchers.

Opposition groups led by Islamists have objected to changes in voting rules for the upcoming elections that could undercut their rising clout.

Islamists and their allies took control of Kuwait's parliament in February elections, but faced challenges from the Western-backed ruling family.

AP