Kuwait's ruler has named a new prime minister amid mounting opposition protests over claims of high-level corruption.

The official Kuwait News Agency says the emir selected Defense Minister Sheik Jaber Al Hamad Al Sabah for the post Wednesday - two days after the entire Cabinet resigned. Opposition groups have been pressing for the resignation of the long-serving prime minister, Sheik Nasser Al Mohammad Al Sabah, who is viewed by critics as trying to muzzle dissent.

The new prime minister now must select a government.

Earlier this month, dozens of protesters stormed parliament during debate over allegations that high-level officials transferred kickback money to bank accounts outside the country.