After More Than Two Years of Detention, Saudi Arabia Releases Teacher Asaad Al-Ghamdi

The Saudi authorities have released Asaad bin Nasser Al-Ghamdi, the brother of London-based Saudi dissident Dr. Saeed Al-Ghamdi, after more than two years of arbitrary detention since his arrest in November 2022 over tweets he posted on Platform X.

During his detention, Al-Ghamdi underwent multiple trials, leading to the Court of Appeal reducing his sentence from 20 years to 15 years before his eventual release, which is believed to have been influenced by mounting international pressure.

While in prison, Al-Ghamdi suffered severe violations, including a shoulder dislocation that required surgery. However, he faced deliberate medical neglect, worsening his condition. He was also subjected to physical and psychological torture, prolonged solitary confinement, and denial of communication with his family.

Sanad Human Rights Organization congratulates Asaad bin Nasser Al-Ghamdi and his family on his release after more than two years of unjust imprisonment. Sanad also calls for the release of his other brother, retired teacher Mohammed Al-Ghamdi, who has been detained since June 2022 over tweets.

While welcoming this release, Sanad emphasizes that it does not absolve the Saudi authorities of responsibility for the violations Al-Ghamdi endured. The organization renews its call for the immediate release of all prisoners of conscience and an end to the oppressive measures targeting free thinkers.