Four Years On, Dr. Saud Al-Sarhan Still Paying the Price for an Article Expressing His Opinion

This month marks four years since the arrest of Dr. Saud Al-Sarhan, former Secretary-General of the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies, who was detained in October 2021 over an article in which he expressed doubts about the kingdom’s economic and political future under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

According to information obtained by SANAD Human Rights Organization, Dr. Al-Sarhan’s physical and psychological condition has deteriorated during his detention. Sources indicated that he was held for several months in a security facility before being transferred to prison, and has been completely denied contact with his family.

SANAD Human Rights Organization renews its call for the immediate and unconditional release of Dr. Saud Al-Sarhan. Until his release, the organization urges the authorities to disclose his place of detention, allow family communication, and ensure he receives necessary medical care.