For refusing normalisation with Israeli occupation… Saudi activist Rakan Al-Asiri in jail for four years
Four years ago, a young Saudi man attempted to exercise his right to free speech with regard to some internal and external issues pertaining to the Saudi regime’s policies. He expressed his refusal to accept any kind of normalisation with the Israeli occupation and called for certain social changes, particularly in the area of women’s rights. However, he was unaware that the regime would use this right as an excuse to mistreat him and deny him access to other fundamental rights like being treated with respect and being able to live in dignity.
Rakan Al-Asiri, a Saudi activist and blogger who graduated from King Saud University with a degree in software engineering, posted a number of videos and tweets on social media platforms urging the regime to support the Palestinian people’s right to return to their occupied lands and to uphold the Kingdom’s historical stance of refusing to recognize the occupying state.
Rakan Al-Asiri’s social media platforms were devoted to addressing societal concerns, drawing attention to social injustices, and attempting to resolve them. He presents his ideas in a smooth and courteous manner, and his criminal record is clear of any cases or infractions. Nevertheless, the Saudi authorities arrested him in April 2020 and put him in jail; as of this writing, without any legal basis or charge.
Al-Asiri has endured four years of arbitrary detention and cruel treatment, while his legal status has not yet been determined. At the same time, Al-Asiri’s family suffers from constant restrictions on family visits.
The Saudi regime did not stop there with the tragedy of Rakan Al-Asiri. Instead of just robbing him of his freedom and tormenting his family, they also made him participate in a state-produced program in June 2022 to promote Al-Ha’ir Prison, where he discussed his “excellent” detention conditions and the authorities’ dedication to upholding international standards.
Rakan Al-Asiri’s first appearance came two years after his arbitrary arrest over criticising normalisation ties with Israel, during which he introduced the activities of Al-Ha’ir prison provided by the General Investigations and State Security. Additionally, the broadcast was produced from inside what activists claim to be hotel hallways.
It is noteworthy that Abdullah Al-Hamid, a prominent Saudi jurist, died in the same prison where he was subjected to intentional medical negligence and intransigence in receiving any medical care. This is the same prison about which the authorities are trying to improve its reputation and disseminate positive propaganda through lies and coercion.
