Saudi Appointment of Controversial Grand Mufti Sparks Sectarian, Political Concerns

Saudi Arabia’s appointment of Sheikh Saleh Al-Fawzan as the kingdom’s new Grand Mufti has drawn sharp criticism from international rights groups and analysts, who warn that the move could entrench sectarian divides and inflame growing domestic discontent among youth and reform-minded Saudis.

According to Human Rights Watch and media outlets including the Shia Waves Agency, Al-Fawzan has previously described members of the Shiite minority with derogatory terms such as “Rafidha” and “allies of Satan.” Rights advocates say his elevation sends a troubling signal about the Saudi state’s tolerance of hate speech against religious minorities.

Appointed by royal decree on the recommendation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Al-Fawzan will also chair the Council of Senior Scholars — the highest religious authority whose rulings influence national policy. Analysts cited by The Guardian note that the decision reflects Riyadh’s consolidation of control over the clerical establishment even as it pursues social liberalization under Vision 2030.

The backlash coincides with a reported rise in opposition sentiment within Saudi Arabia, particularly among educated youth and junior army officers. Investigative reports by Arab outlets and the whistle-blower account Mujtahid indicate that awareness campaigns and online forums critical of government policies have gained traction, prompting concern within the royal court about potential dissent.

In response, the government has reportedly expanded ideological training programs and tightened surveillance over academic and religious circles instead of opening channels for dialogue. Human Rights Watch warns that the combination of sectarian exclusion and political repression could deepen societal rifts and undermine long-term stability.

Saudi authorities have previously faced criticism for discrimination against Shiite citizens, particularly in the Eastern Province, where several community activists were executed in recent years on what rights monitors called politically motivated charges.

Observers say that addressing sectarian bias and engaging younger generations in constructive debate are critical to preserving Saudi Arabia’s internal cohesion. Without such steps, analysts warn, the kingdom risks further alienation at home and reputational damage abroad.