Two Saudi Rights Activists Set for Trial

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The trial of two Saudi Arabian human rights activists will reportedly resume later this week following its start Saturday. The activists Mohammed Fahad al-Qahtani and Abdullah al-Hamid face numerous charges, including founding an unlicensed civil rights organization and breaking allegiance to the country’s rulers. The opening hearing was heavily attended by activists and friends, reported Al Arabiya, and both detainees are members of the Saudi Civil and Political Rights Association. Qahtani said, “We have been doing our work for several years. The authorities kept quiet for a long time, but now they are coming after us hard.”

Meanwhile, according to reports, 30 women will be added to Saudi Arabia’s Shura Council in 2013; the council currently consists of all males. Sources say that talks have already begun with many institutions to propose qualified female candidates, and a high-level panel will look into the nominees and select the final list. Additionally, female director Haifaa al-Mansour has released Saudi Arabia’s first film,”Wadjda.”