Public Prosecution: Inciting tribalism is a threat to public order
The Public Prosecution in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through its official account on the social media platform “X” (formerly Twitter), affirmed today, Monday, its firm stance against any practices that would harm the social fabric, stressing that preserving national unity is a sacred national duty that cannot be compromised.
The Public Prosecutor's statement included a strongly worded warning against inciting or promoting tribalism in any form, emphasizing that such actions constitute a direct violation of public order and a clear threat to the unity and stability of society. This warning comes within the framework of the state's ongoing efforts to consolidate the concept of true citizenship and reject all forms of division.
The legal framework and criminalization of tribalism
Legally, inciting tribalism is not merely a verbal transgression, but a crime severely punished under Saudi law. Such practices, especially when carried out via social media, fall under the purview of the Anti-Cybercrime Law, which criminalizes the production, preparation, transmission, or storage of anything that could harm public order. The judiciary views these actions as destructive forces that threaten civil peace, thus warranting deterrent penalties, including imprisonment and fines, to ensure they are not repeated.
The importance of strengthening a unifying national identity
These warnings take on added significance in light of the major transformations underway in Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030, which is fundamentally based on building a vibrant and robust society. The overarching Saudi national identity serves as the umbrella under which all citizens find shelter, transcending narrow sub-national affiliations. Historically, since its founding, the Saudi state has worked to integrate tribal and regional components into a single national identity, considering tribalism a relic of the past that hinders development and progress.
Impact on social stability and peace
The danger of inciting tribalism extends far beyond mere words; it can fracture social bonds and fuel hatred and animosity among citizens of the same nation. Social and legal experts emphasize that intellectual and social security is the cornerstone of any economic or cultural renaissance. Cohesive societies are best equipped to confront challenges and move forward into the future. Therefore, the Public Prosecutor's call today serves as a reminder of the individual's responsibility towards their country and the necessity for citizens to be the first line of defense against anything that threatens national stability.
