Succession in Ra's al-Khaima
Issandr El AmraniI missed this when it came out at the beginning of the month. Interesting how these mini-states operate, also that tanks were involved...
The Politics of Succession in Ra's Al-Khaimah - GULF STREAM - Current Intelligence:
When Saqr died on October 27th, there were several hours of confusion. Khalid re-entered Ra's al-Khaimah and installed himself in his pre-2003 palace with over a hundred supporters and retainers. He had earlier been promised by the rulers of Abu Dhabi and Dubai that he could attend his father's funeral and had concluded that he would be peacefully and swiftly installed as ruler, with Saud remaining as crown prince. By mid-afternoon, however, a brief announcement was made by the Abu Dhabi-controlled Federal Ministry for Presidential Affairs congratulating Saud on becoming the new ruler of Ra's al-Khaimah. Tanks were deployed on the outskirts of Ra's al-Khaimah and most of Khalid's guards were arrested and remain detained for questioning. Khalid and his son were not permitted to attend the funeral.
With Khalid stating that he intends to meet with the members of the Supreme Council of Rulers (comprising the rulers of each emirate) in order to discuss the future of Ra's al-Khaimah, it appears that he is unwilling to drop his claim, even though he has now had to leave the emirate. This unresolved challenge will continue to undermine Saud and may provoke renewed instability in the future.
Incidentally I really like the publishing model of Current Intelligence.
Reader Comments (2)
Bearing in mind the author is based in Durham, UK and infrequently visits UAE, not exactly a reliable source and I must admit puzzlement as to what his agenda is!
His stream of sniping criticism has lost him all credibility, from my point of view.
Would love to hear more about your points of disagreement!