Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Habib and Khaled Al-Faris Okaz/Saudi Gazette RIYADH — In the third part of the interview about the life of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah, Prince Miteb Bin Abdullah, Minister of State, Cabinet member and Commander of the National Guard, focuses on the King's view on the role of women. Asked about the King's criteria in choosing officials including Shoura Council members, Prince Miteb said the most important thing King Abdullah is concerned about is that the official should be God-fearing in private and public before anything else. Also, he should be concerned about the interest and reputation of his nation. He considers these to be the most important basic factors for those whom he listens to for their views and to participate in formulating decisions besides their knowledge, experience and integrity, said Prince Miteb. King Abdullah has deep belief that knowledge and experience are two sides of the same coin and those who are knowledgeable and experienced are worth trusting, should be heard and can shoulder any responsibility. As for integrity, it reflects the King's strong belief on the importance of integrity, objectivity, and the correct viewpoint, stance and decision. This applies to women members of the Shoura Council. Discussing the King's recent appointment of 30 women as members in the Shoura Council, Prince Miteb said King Abdullah believes that women are half of society. Throughout Islamic history women had a presence and an educational, humanitarian and social role. With women the family and society can be reformed. The King is keen that the Saudi woman's personality should be polished and she should be given the opportunity to serve herself, her family and society within the bounds of religious teachings, said Prince Miteb. This is what the Royal Order said on women's entry in the Shoura Council after consulting the Ulema and according to Shariah guidelines. "God willing, Saudi women will form an important addition in the Shoura Council. Islamic history testifies that women were a help to men in various fields. The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to consult women," said Prince Miteb. Asked whether there is an effective role for women in the National Guard, Prince Miteb said the National Guard believes in women getting involved. “Women can work in tasks that suit their nature. In the hospital, the Saudi woman works as a doctor, nurse, technician, in the administration, as a worker, and in other services. Women are sent on scholarship.” He expressed his hope that someday women will work as soldiers.
