Mishal Al-Otaibi Saudi Gazette RIYADH – The head of the National Society for Human Rights (NSHR) has said the death penalty is awarded to any convict in the Kingdom only after it was unanimously endorsed by the Supreme Court's judges. Mufleh Al-Qahtani said: “The necessary amendments were made in the criminal law to this effect following a study carried out by the Shoura Council." Al-Qahtani, speaking during a reception hosted in honor of a visiting parliamentary delegation from Denmark in Riyadh on Wednesday, said the Kingdom's legal system is based on Shariah rules. He added: “Any verdict issued on the basis of Shariah supported with substantial evidence is not subject to discussion and its execution is mandatory. “The death penalty comes in this category." He said a death sentence can only be issued after a series of legal procedures is followed to ensure a fair trial. The NSHR chief also said a death sentence is normally issued for major criminal offenses. The delegation comprising members of the Danish parliament's foreign policy committee was headed by Beye Kavud. He was accompanied by Danish Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Christian Konigsfeld. Al-Qahtani briefed the delegation on the society and its activities as well as its contributions in raising public awareness about human rights and spreading a human rights culture. He also spoke about the advancements made in protecting the rights of women in Saudi society.
