Saudi royal pardon: King Salman orders the release of prisoners convicted of common law offenses
In compliance with the generous directives of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud - may God protect him - the Saudi Ministry of Interior announced the commencement of procedures for pardoning male and female inmates convicted in public rights cases, with the aim of releasing them and enabling them to return to their families and relatives.
On this occasion, His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Interior, expressed his deepest gratitude and appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and to His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister - may God protect them - for the great care and attention they give to their sons and daughters who are inmates of prisons, and their constant keenness to give them a new opportunity to be reintegrated into society to be good members.
Historical background of the tradition of royal pardon
Royal pardons are a long-standing humanitarian tradition in Saudi Arabia, with the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques issuing pardons periodically, often coinciding with significant religious and national occasions such as the holy month of Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, or National Day. These initiatives stem from the values of tolerance and compassion advocated by Islam and reflect the Saudi leadership's humanitarian approach to its citizens, offering those who have erred an opportunity for self-reflection and a return to the right path.
The importance of the decision and its societal impact
The royal pardon carries profound social and humanitarian dimensions. Domestically, it contributes to family reunification and alleviates the psychological and financial burdens on the families of prisoners, thus strengthening family stability and social cohesion. It also represents a genuine opportunity for those pardoned to begin a new chapter in their lives and contribute effectively to building their nation. This generous gesture underscores that the purpose of punishment is not revenge, but reform and rehabilitation, which reinforces citizens' confidence in their justice system. His Royal Highness the Minister of Interior directed all relevant authorities to expedite the implementation of the royal decree, emphasizing that this compassionate and humanitarian gesture will have a profound impact on the beneficiaries upon their release and reunion with their families.
Regulations for pardon and distinction between public and private rights
It is important to note that a royal pardon covers the "public right," which is the right of the state and society to punish the perpetrator of a crime. However, the "private right," which pertains to the harm suffered by individuals, is not waived by the royal pardon. The victim retains the right to seek compensation or retribution unless they choose to waive it. Pardon procedures are subject to specific controls and rules that ensure justice and maintain public safety. Pardons typically do not include perpetrators of major and serious crimes that directly threaten public safety, such as terrorism, premeditated murder, and drug trafficking.
