Five Years Since His Arrest, SANAD Renews Its Call for Dr. Mohammed Al-Hazmi’s Release

These days mark the fifth anniversary of Saudi authorities’ arrest of Dr. Mohammed Al-Hazmi, a professor of Arabic at King Khalid University, detained since July 2021 over his attendance at a cultural seminar held at Dr. Awad Al-Qarni’s home.

SANAD revealed that his arrest came as part of the “Abha Campaign,” targeting five figures over a licensed cultural seminar held in 2013, years before their arrests. Charges against him also relied on tweets he denied posting and an old Friday sermon whose case had already been officially closed.

The Public Prosecution brought vague charges, including “supporting a banned group” and “destabilizing society,” and sought harsh penalties. Despite the lack of credible evidence and his deteriorating health, the Specialized Criminal Court sentenced him to 23 years in prison, followed by a 23-year travel ban, and permanently closed his X account.

SANAD calls on Saudi authorities to immediately and unconditionally release Dr. Mohammed Al-Hazmi, overturn the unjust sentence, end all punitive measures against him, ensure he receives proper healthcare, and hold accountable those responsible for violations against him.