For more than 30 years we have read statements from various officials promising that this and that project “will be” implemented as planned. The “we-will-do-this-and-we-will-do-that” officials have not changed their tactics. The word “will” always plays a prominent role when they are asked about a proposed project, an amendment to some administrative or financial laws or promised reforms. Even when the “will” finally becomes reality, the achievement inevitably falls short of public expectations. We have before us a long list of unrealized projects that, though feasible, have never been given serious consideration. They will remain on hold, waiting for a miracle that will revive them.
For over two decades now, talk went on about the train service. We were told of plans to introduce an electric train service in major cities and of a international rail service linking the Kingdom, especially the two Holy Cities of Makkah and Madinah, with Syria and Turkey and eventually Europe.
There were also plans for a railway line running across the country from the Arabian Gulf to the Red Sea. Each time an official is asked about these projects the answer is exactly what we have come to expect,“We will do it.”
In 1963 the Kingdom’s senior ulema issued a fatwa authorizing the construction of fixed buildings in the plain of Mina outside Makkah to accommodate the increasing numbers of pilgrims and ensure safety during Haj. The fatwa won official backing but since then nothing has been done. In the meantime, substitute projects unrelated to the original proposal continue to be implemented as if no one had heard of the fatwa.
A lot of discussion has been going on about employing women. For 20 years the issue has been debated at every level and what is the result? More and more college graduates are joined by those finishing high school — all seeking employment and all adding to the already large numbers of jobless young people and existing social problems.
The “We will do” officials have successfully managed to sell their product for many years — and I consider the product of high quality and the officials unusually talented. Perhaps it is time they started exporting their skills and achievements so that other less fortunate nations could benefit from their wide knowledge and experience.
Arab News From the Local Press 10 June 2003
