My name is Abdullah and my dad, Salman Alodah, is facing a death sentence in Saudi Arabia. His “crimes” include ‘sarcasm and mockery of the government’s achievements’ but most of the charges against him don’t even violate any law in the Kingdom. They’re silencing him in the most extreme way: by demanding the death penalty.
Sarcasm isn’t a crime. And certainly no one should be arrested, tortured, and face death because they were sarcastic. Yet, my dad has been.
My dad is a scholar and former TV presenter in Saudi Arabia. But the thing is, my dad doesn’t echo the government’s position: instead he uses his platform to promote a constitutional monarchy in the state which would limit the absolute power of the Royal Family and allow for more inclusive political instiutions.
Mohammed bin Salman didn't like it, and so has kept him in detention for five years. His imprisonment, including solitary confinement, and the conditions he has been kept in, have resulted in him becoming partially deaf and blind.
I’m worried about my dad. Death sentences handed to people for non-lethal crimes, like my dad’s, have been increasing under Mohammed bin Salman and I’m terrified my dad will be executed.
Please call on Mohammed bin Salman to free my dad. Add your name >>