Saudi Gazette

Jeddah — The crackdown on corruption soon after the formation of an anti-graft supreme committee headed by the Crown Prince has been widely welcomed by citizens and residents.

Many of those interviewed by Saudi Gazette recalled the words of Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman, deputy premier and minister of defense, that “no body is above the law.”

Salman Al-Dawsari, a writer and former editor-in-chief of Al-Sharq Al-Awsat newspaper, described the move as “a war” against corruption that the Crown Prince promised six months ago in his popular interview explaining the plan for a future Saudi Arabia.

Abdullah Al-Sadoun, a Shoura Council member, said that corruption is not only related to money, but also to delay in serving the public.

“Administrative corruption is much dangerous as it hinders public interest,” he said, adding that one of the effective ways to combat corruption is to choose honest officials, ministers and heads of companies.

Halima Mudafar, a Saudi writer, called on Shoura members to do their jobs seriously and serve locals.

“Today will be a different morning for all officials. You will see them in their offices dot on time,” Mudafar said.

Malik Najar, a Saudi artist and director, said that working in a public post and in the trade sector is a huge responsibility. So before accepting a post one needs to be careful.

With anti-corruption measures not only public money will be protected but national security will also be safeguarded, said Mohammad Ilwan, a Saudi novelist.

“The Royal Decree guarantees citizens’ rights and protects public finance,” said Hattan Saaty, managing partner at Strategic Gears, a local consultancy firm. “This further promotes Vision 2030 goals.”

Khaled Al-Dossari, an HR professional, said: “We look forward to seeing more transparency in all sectors. It’s a very good step.”

Dr. Hashim Alzain, an engineering director, said, “It’s a clear message from leadership that nobody is above the law. It will make a positive impact on the economy.”

Salma, a university lecturer, said: “This clearly shows how the King along with the Crown Prince care that every Saudi Riyal should be use in the interest of the country and its people.”

“We are now in an era where no corrupt person will go unpunished,” Hassan, a doctor by profession, said.

Ahmed, a fresh graduate from the College of Media and Communication, said, “We are so proud of being Saudis because we saw justice and equality.”

“I remembered the words of the Crown Prince that no corrupt person will get away without receiving strict punishment despite his name or position.”

“Now we are sure that no one will be able to steal public fund,” Nasser, a 30-year-old accountant, stressed.