On the 15th Anniversary of His Arrest… Mohammed Al-Wadaani Completes His Sentence but Remains Detained

These days mark the 15th anniversary of the arrest of human rights activist and teacher Mohammed Al-Wadaani in March 2011, which coincides with the completion of his full 15-year prison sentence. Despite this, Saudi authorities have not released him.

Al-Wadaani was arrested in March 2011 for peacefully calling for political reforms, including a transition to a constitutional monarchy and the release of all prisoners of conscience. On 5 September 2013, the Specialized Criminal Court sentenced him to 15 years in prison.

He was violently arrested in Al-Rajhi Mosque Square in Riyadh, where he was severely beaten and kicked in public. He later endured harsh torture in prison, leaving visible marks on his body, along with psychological pressure, including attempts to force his family to disown him.

SANAD Human Rights Organization renews its call for Saudi authorities to immediately and unconditionally release Mohammed Al-Wadaani, especially after he has completed his sentence, provide him with appropriate compensation, and release all prisoners of conscience.