Fact Check: Saudi Crown Prince Blames 'Bad Laws' for Death Sentences on Critics
What We Know
Recently, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) expressed his discontent regarding the death sentence handed down to a Saudi citizen, Mohammed al-Ghamdi, for his social media activity. During a press conference, MBS stated, "Shamefully, it's true," referring to the death sentence, and acknowledged that the judiciary operates under "bad laws" that he is working to change (Middle East Eye, source-2). Al-Ghamdi was convicted under a counterterrorism law that has been criticized for its broad definitions and has been used to silence dissent (Human Rights Watch, source-3).
MBS's comments come amid a backdrop of increasing scrutiny over Saudi Arabia's human rights record, particularly regarding free speech and the treatment of critics. Human rights advocates argue that the laws enabling such sentences are a direct result of MBS's consolidation of power since he became crown prince in 2017 (The Guardian, source-4).
Analysis
MBS's claim that "bad laws" are responsible for the death sentences can be seen as an attempt to distance himself from the judicial decisions that have drawn international condemnation. Critics argue that while he acknowledges the existence of these laws, he has the authority to amend them or halt their application, thus placing the responsibility back on his leadership (Middle East Eye, source-2).
Legal experts and human rights organizations highlight that the counterterrorism law under which al-Ghamdi was sentenced was enacted during MBS's tenure and has been utilized to suppress dissent. This suggests a contradiction in MBS's statements, as he is both the architect of the current legal framework and a critic of its outcomes (Human Rights Watch, source-3).
Furthermore, the judiciary in Saudi Arabia is not independent; judges are appointed by the king, and the legal system has often been described as a tool for political repression (Middle East Eye, source-2). This raises questions about the sincerity of MBS's claims regarding reform, as he has significant control over the judicial process.
Conclusion
The claim that MBS blamed "bad laws" for the death sentences on critics is True. He did indeed express shame over the ruling and acknowledged the existence of problematic laws. However, the context of his statements reveals a deeper issue: MBS's administration has created and enforced these laws, which have led to increased repression of dissent. His acknowledgment of "bad laws" appears to be an attempt to deflect responsibility rather than a genuine commitment to reform.
Sources
- Insiders on the rise of Saudi's Crown Prince
- MBS said 'bad laws' led to a death sentence for tweets.
- Saudi Crown Prince Confirms Death Sentence for Tweets
- Fresh scrutiny of free speech in Saudi Arabia after brothers' convictions over tweets
- Mohammed bin Salman 'ashamed' of Saudi Arabia's laws
- Relatives of Saudis facing execution urge 'ashamed' crown prince to act
- A Saudi journalist tweeted against the government
- Crown Prince: I Don't Want Saudi Critic to Die but Can't Do Anything
