Three Years of Arbitrary Detention: Sanad Calls for the Immediate Release of Rapper Omar Shibouba

These days mark the third anniversary of the arbitrary detention of young rapper Omar Shibouba, who has been held since mid-March 2022 without any legal justification.

Shibouba’s arrest followed an incitement campaign led by pro-government accounts, accusing him of performing so-called “revolutionary songs” that included explicit criticism of corruption and corrupt officials, as well as raising questions about the absence of the rule of law amid widespread corruption.

Sanad Human Rights Organization expresses deep concern over the continued detention of Omar Shibouba without trial or formal charges, considering it a blatant violation of fundamental rights to freedom of expression and artistic creativity.

Sanad renews its call on the Saudi authorities to release Omar Shibouba immediately and unconditionally, and to allow him to freely exercise his right to artistic expression without harassment or restrictions.