Graft purge was ‘shock therapy’: Saudi Crown Prince

By Ahmed al-Masri

DOHA

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has described a recent anti-corruption sweep as part of a “shock therapy” the oil-rich kingdom needed.

In November, Saudi authorities arrested dozens of people, including 11 princes, ministers and businessmen, on corruption charges.

Most of the detainees were later released with Saudi authorities saying they netted over 400 billion riyals ($106.7 billion) in anti-corruption settlements.

In an interview with The Washington Post, bin Salman said the campaign was part of a “shock” therapy needed to modernize the kingdom’s cultural and political life.

On Monday, Saudi authorities replaced a number of military commanders, including the military chief of staff, in a major shakeup in the kingdom.

“The changes of the defense ministry took place to receive better results of expenditure,” the crown prince said.

Commenting on the recent changes in Saudi Arabia, bin Salman said “the wide pace and speed of change are necessary for success.”

Saudi Arabia has witnessed major reforms in recent months, including allowing women to drive and allowing females to enter football stadiums.

According to previous statements by the Saudi crown prince, the kingdom spends average $70 billion annually, placing itself as the “third largest country in military armament expenditure”.

Saudi Arabia has set a plan to nationalize 50 percent of armament imports by 2030.