DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) – Saudi Arabia’s new monarch isn’t wasting time.
Since assuming the throne Jan. 23, King Salman has elevated some of his closest relatives and sidelined previous power-brokers, tightened decision-making and promised lavish payouts designed to win early goodwill.
While his new administration gives greater prominence to younger generations, it remains to be seen whether the swift housecleaning will lead to greater political rights and other reforms in the ultraconservative kingdom.
One clear winner in the shake-up is Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, who has been interior minister since 2012 and spearheads counterterrorism efforts.
King Salman named the 55-year-old as deputy crown prince in one of his first acts as king. That’s a historic change, because for the first time it puts a grandson of Saudi Arabia’s founder, King Abdul-Aziz Al Saud, on course to rule. He becomes second in line to the throne behind Salman’s half brother Crown Prince Muqrin, who is 69.