Hassan Al-Haydos, the former Saudi Arabian Prime Minister and leader of the National Democratic Party (NPD), has been widely celebrated for his political acumen and leadership skills. His tenure as prime minister saw him tackle several significant challenges that had previously plagued the country, including economic instability, corruption, and terrorism. However, one aspect of Hassan's legacy that has continued to resonate with the public is his ability to attack and defeat his opponents in various elections. In this article, we will explore some of these tactics and their impact on Hassan's presidency.
The Battle for Control of the National Oil Company (NOC)
One of Hassan's most controversial acts was his decision to appoint himself as chairman of the NOC, effectively taking control of the company. This move was seen as a means of consolidating power in his hands and cementing his position as a powerful figure within the government. However, it also sparked controversy among the oil industry and the opposition, who felt that he had gone too far in favor of his own interests. Despite this, Hassan remained resolute in his decision, and his efforts to bring down the NOC were ultimately unsuccessful.
However, it was not just his decision to appoint himself as chairman of the NOC that led to controversy. He also appointed himself as a member of the Supreme Council of Petroleum and Mineral Resources (SCMPR), which further complicated matters. This made him more beholden to the state, rather than a private individual, and contributed to his downfall.
In response to these controversies, Hassan sought to distance himself from the NOC and its policies. He introduced new measures aimed at boosting the economy and reducing corruption, but these actions were met with resistance from both within and outside the government. Ultimately, his efforts to improve the NOC were largely unsuccessful, and he lost re-election in 2015.
The Battle for the Throne of Saudi Arabia
Following Hassan's departure from power in 2018, his successor, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, took over the reins. He quickly began to address the country's economic crisis by implementing austerity measures, cutting social spending, and increasing taxes. This approach was unpopular with many Saudis, who viewed it as a step towards devaluation of the currency and a shift away from traditional Saudi values.
However, the measures did not go unnoticed, and they soon faced criticism from international observers. Some argued that they were an attempt to undermine the monarchy, while others believed that they were necessary to save the kingdom from economic collapse. The controversy surrounding these measures was ultimately resolved through negotiations between the government and the opposition, which resulted in a compromise agreement.
In conclusion, Hassan Al-Haydos' presidency was marked by a mix of successes and failures. While he was able to tackle significant challenges such as economic instability and terrorism, he also suffered from internal divisions and external pressure. His efforts to restore stability and reform the kingdom were ultimately unsuccessful, and he lost re-election in 2015. Despite these challenges, Hassan remains a revered figure in the history of Saudi Arabia, known for his strategic vision and his ability to navigate complex political situations with skill.