Saudi Arabia has proven to the world that it has strong institutional structures that can ensure a smooth transition of power, guaranteeing stability in a region beset by conflict.
This was the news the world was waiting for because this country plays a critical role on the global stage, as one of the planet’s major oil suppliers and home to the two holy mosques.
Many people are probably unaware that the handing over of power in Saudi Arabia is based on regulations, norms and traditions that have protected the country over the years from chaos.
There are well-established traditions of respect, collaboration and obedience to the king inside the royal family. King Abdullah’s order to establish the Allegiance Council in 2006 was one of the most important decisions in the history of the country. The council consists of King Abdul Aziz’s sons and grandsons, who formalize the succession process.
The world lost an important Saudi leader who gained international respect as a wise man of values and morals. He gained much appreciation for saving the region from war, with his projects supporting peace and dialogue. The latest was his historic role last year in saving the Gulf Cooperation Council from complete collapse.
Our new leader, King Salman, is a natural statesman having proven his worth from the time he took over the Riyadh governorate. It was only natural that many consider him the “personal adviser of the kings of Saudi Arabia” because he was so close to the previous kings. With a deep understanding and knowledge of the world, the king has gained international trust and respect.
He is also known for being extremely loyal. People will never forget how he stood by his brothers King Fahd, King Abdullah and Crown Prince Sultan when they were ill, visiting them every day before they passed away.
King Salman has a deep appreciation of the importance of empowering the Saudi ruling house. He asked the family’s Allegiance Council to pay allegiance to Prince Muqrin as crown prince and appointed him as the deputy premier.
It was no surprise that Prince Muqrin, who was the deputy crown prince, was chosen for these new positions. As the youngest living son of King Abdul Aziz, Prince Muqrin is a military man who served as a pilot in the air force and has held a series of leadership positions including as governor of both Hail and Madinah. His successes showed his eligibility for these posts.
The king also chose Interior Minister Muhammad bin Naif as the new deputy crown prince and second deputy premier. While a majority of the council supported the king’s decisions, his call reflects much respect and commitment to abide by regulations. Prince Muhammad is the first prince of the second generation to hold such a position.
This has shown the foresight of King Salman. He has gone further by appointing Prince Mohammed bin Salman as president of the royal court and the minister of defense. Prince Mohammed has worked closely with his father as a special adviser since he was appointed as governor of Riyadh and minister of defense. The prince accompanied his father on foreign trips, and internal and external meetings, which gave him much-needed expertise and experience.
King Salman’s vision and quick decisions have been met with relief on the streets in Saudi Arabia. It builds on a 300-year-old institution that prizes continuity and prioritizes the state’s connection with citizens.
Saudi Arabia has once again proved that it can rise up to the challenge of achieving stability and focusing on development while countries surrounding it are mired in conflict and terror. This is why the country is so respected across the globe.
