18 Years of Arbitrary Detention: SANAD Calls for the Immediate Release of Dr. Saud Al-Hashimi

In February 2007, Saudi authorities arrested Dr. Saud Al-Hashimi for attempting to establish an official human rights association aimed at promoting citizens’ rights awareness and for drafting a political reform document intended for the Saudi King. Eighteen years later, he remains in arbitrary detention.

During his imprisonment, Al-Hashimi endured more than five months of enforced disappearance, physical abuse including beatings and electric shocks, prolonged sleep deprivation, and denial of medical care. He was also subjected to long periods of solitary confinement.

Over three years after his arrest, Al-Hashimi faced trial on charges of disobeying the King, forming a political opposition group, and questioning judicial independence. The trial concluded with a 30-year prison sentence and a travel ban of equal duration.

SANAD Human Rights Organization calls on Saudi authorities to immediately and unconditionally release Dr. Saud Al-Hashimi and to conduct an independent and impartial investigation into the human rights violations he suffered, including torture, medical neglect, and solitary confinement. His continued detention for 18 years represents a grave violation of international human rights standards and contradicts Saudi Arabia’s international obligations.

SANAD also urges the international community and human rights organizations to maintain pressure to end all forms of arbitrary detention and ensure justice and accountability for such abuses. Ultimately, comprehensive reform is needed to guarantee freedom of expression and protect all citizens from arbitrary practices.