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Author: Jamiu Folarin
Posted to the web: 8/11/2005 3:39:58 PM

Challenges facing the new Saudi monarchJamiu Folarin Following the death on August 2, 2005 of Saudi Arabia, King Fahd, after almost 10 years battle with a debilitating stroke, Crown Prince Abdullah Binziz, has been named as his successor. However, Prince Abdullah, who has been serving as the de facto leader of the oil-rich country since 1995 as a result of the ill-health of the 83-year old king, now faces greater challenges than his predecessor. Fahd’s 23-year reign was very challenging as he faced criticism from some Muslims and Islamic countries. He was widely criti-cised for his unclear stand on the Palestianian/Israeli problems and constant support for the US foreign policy. These were believed to be detrimental to the yearnings and aspirations of Muslims worldwide. The former king had a difficult moment during his regime, expecially during the three regional wars; for the presence of US troops in the Peninsula; for his strong alliance with Washington and decision to allow US to deploy in Islam birthplace in 1990; and for Riyadh’s support for the war on terrorism. The last instance had annoyed the ring leader of the al Qaeda network, Osama bin Laden, who described the monarch as US ‘agent and stooge.’ Bin Laden also believed that Fahd’s rule was an extension of the ‘crusader wars against Muslims’. King Fahd also had a hard time with his ally (US) during the September 11, 2001 attacks on Washing-ton and New York. These are the legacies of King Fahd. Only time will tell whether Abdullah will follow his footprints, as his smooth sccession has been described as a promising continuity of the US foreign policy in the kingdom. Meanwhile, one of the greatest challenges the new monarch faces is to bring about everlasting peace in the Middle East. He must also ensure a cordial relationship between the West and Middle East by offering a practical alternative to terror, which will include finding a lasting solution that will make Palestinians and Israelis feel they enjoy justice, security and prosperity. Also, the new king must try as much as possible to help in reintegrating Iraq into the Arab world, whole, sovereign and not subjugated and weak. This can be achieved through peace initiation by making their enemies to become allies. He should hold dialogue with ‘moderate’, conservatives and Islamic groups in the Arab world. As the historical leader of the Muslim world, he must also maintain the integrity and sovereignty of his country and be the flag bearer of regional stability. Saudi’s foreign policy must benefit the citizenry and the rest of the Arab world. Jamiu Folarin is a student of the Department of Mass Communication, Olabisi Onabamjo University, Ago Iwoye, Ogun State