Demand the Freedom of Ali al-Nimr and All Saudi Political Prisoners
Ali al-Nimr was just 17 when he was arrested for his involvement in peaceful pro-democracy protests in Saudi Arabia. He was sentenced to death and has spent the past eight years in prison — the past six on death row — all for the “crime” of protesting for democracy in Saudi Arabia. On the anniversary of Ali’s arrest, we are asking Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to use his position and influence to urge Saudi to release Ali and all political prisoners.
Dear Secretary of State Mike Pompeo,
As advocates for human rights and democracy around the world, we are asking you to use your power and influence to pressure Saudi Arabia to release Ali al-Nimr and all other political prisoners.
May 27 marks eight years that Ali al-Nimr has spent behind bars. Ali was a child of just 17 when he was arrested for the “crime” of peacefully advocating for democracy during the Arab Spring. Two years after his arrest, he was sentenced to death. He has spent the past six years on death row, isolated from his loved ones and facing torture, abuse, and fear.
Saudi Arabia has recently announced they will no longer impose the death penalty on prisoners arrested as minors. This change is a step in the right direction and a huge relief for Ali and his family--but it’s not enough. Ali and the thousands of Saudi political prisoners like him deserve complete freedom. Mr. Secretary, you are one of the most powerful figures in the US government, and you toured Saudi Arabia just a few months ago. We implore you to use your influence and privilege to demand the immediate release of Ali al-Nimr and all other Saudi political prisoners. Fighting for human rights is never a crime, and it is inexcusable that Ali and his fellow activists should spend another day in prison.
We implore you to use your power for good and fight for their freedom.
Sincerely,