In his 14th year behind bars… Wajdi Al-Ghazzawi remains imprisoned despite completing his sentence

This month marks the 13th anniversary of Saudi journalist Wajdi Al-Ghazzawi’s arrest in August 2012. He now enters his 14th year in prison, despite completing his 12-year sentence in August 2024, with Saudi authorities refusing to release him.

Al-Ghazzawi was arrested for addressing corruption and embezzlement of public funds on his TV program Fadfada, which aimed to raise political and human rights awareness. In 2014, the Specialized Criminal Court sentenced him to 12 years in prison, a 20-year travel ban, and a permanent ban from media appearances, on charges including “harming Saudi Arabia’s reputation,” “producing material that distorts public order and morality,” and “inciting sedition.” Al-Ghazzawi previously held several government positions, including Director of Religious Affairs at the National Guard Hospital in Jeddah.

Sanad Human Rights Organization reiterates its call for the immediate and unconditional release of Wajdi Al-Ghazzawi, urging activists and human rights organizations to intensify pressure on Saudi authorities to end his arbitrary detention and restore his legitimate rights.