Saudi Arabia Appoints Conservative Mufti, 'Sweeping Changes' Continue
Ah, yes. 'Sweeping social changes' – you know, like women driving (a minor concession that boosts the economy), and concert venues that distract from uncomfortable questions. But when it comes to the actual levers of religious and social control, the House of Saud isn't exactly embracing a 'progressive' vision. Sheikh Saleh bin Fawzan bin Abdullah Al-Fawzan, named grand mufti, is on public record
opposing child marriage only in 'cases of harm' and has made controversial statements about Shiite Muslims. This isn't a pivot; it's a reinforcement. One might wonder if these 'social changes' are less about genuine reform and more about projecting a softer image for Western consumption, while internally solidifying the existing power dynamics. The appointment of a divisive, ultra-conservative
figure to the top religious post (one who has faced criticism from human rights groups for past comments) reveals that MBS's 'reforms' have limits, conveniently stopping where they might genuinely challenge state control or the ruling family's tight grip.