Saudis’ Local Elections Delayed for Two Years

By MICHAEL SLACKMAN
Published: May 19, 2009
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/20/world/middleeast/20saudi.html?ref=world

Information on experiences from many developing countries indicates that political authority and political values not only determine the boundaries of general administrative action and behavior but also shape bureaucratic attitudes towards it citizens (Jerisat:62). Evidence from this article demonstrates that despite the modernization and limited progress toward the development of a constitutional monarchy, the boundaries established by the political authority does indeed shape the bureaucratic attitudes towards it citizens.

One of the topics discussed in class is the influence of religion, divine law and tradition in establishing the legitimacy of a government’s structure. Saudi Arabia is a classic example of a monarchy whose political structure is sanctioned by traditional religious beliefs. It is strengthened by nationalism that further perpetuates the resistance to change or reform towards a more inclusive democratic society. Oil rich Saudi Arabia with its growing economy and increasing populations continues to be guided by the principals of religion. The Holy Qur'an is the constitution of the country, which is governed on the basis of Islamic law. The king's powers are limited because he must observe the Shari'a and other Saudi traditions. He also must retain a consensus of the Saudi royal family, religious leaders (ulema), and other important elements in Saudi society. http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/3584.htm

Further evidence of religious influence is demonstrated by the role of women in Saudi society. While some progress has been made for women, in particular educational opportunities and employment positions, suffrage is not one that has been considered. Even with efforts to move this voting agenda forward traditional values continue to promote the separation of men and women. Absent from discussion or future plans for elections are women’s right to vote. Women are still dominated by Islamic law that supports devaluing the worth of women in comparison to men. Diana P.