Khaberni - The Saudi Media Regulatory Authority has resolved the controversy over irresponsible "freedom of expression" on social media, stating that it is criminal by law and threatens community security.
The lawyer and legal advisor, Mohammed Al-Baraqi, explained that Article 6 of the Information Crimes Act stipulates a penalty of up to 5 years imprisonment and a fine of 3 million Riyals, or one of these penalties, for anyone who produces, sends or stores any content that affects public order, religious values, public morals or the sanctity of private life through the information network, according to Okaz.
Al-Baraqi emphasized the importance of raising legal awareness among community members, adding that ignorance of the regulations or an expansion of misconceptions about freedom of expression leads some to commit serious violations without realizing their legal consequences.
He pointed out that disciplined freedom is completely detached from incitement and agitation, noting that some "cling to the concept of freedom of expression to use it as a cover for practices that are prohibited by law." He added that the state welcomes constructive and objective criticism, but "does not tolerate those who try to use criticism as a means to create chaos in the media or electronic space."
He affirmed that the regulations will not allow the exploitation of societal issues with misleading populist rhetoric, urging the sense of personal responsibility and compliance with the regulations to preserve community security and stability.
Media Content Monitoring
From his side, Hassan Al-Salmi, the Vice President of the General Authority for Media Regulation, explained in statements to Al Arabiya channel that incitement and agitation through social media platforms are contrary to freedom of expression and are criminalized according to the regulations, emphasizing that the media discourse in Saudi Arabia is based on responsible freedom that does not slip into chaos or threaten community security.
He said: "The Authority plays a key role in enabling and organizing the media sector, by overcoming obstacles that hinder its growth and development, increasing the number of practitioners, and monitoring all forms of media content; to ensure compliance with regulations and rules."
He pointed out that the Authority recognized the seriousness of the grave violations committed by some individuals recently, which included publications agitating public opinion, materials threatening community security and safety, and incendiary practices against state agencies and policies. He confirmed that the Authority referred the violators to the Public Prosecution for violating the text of the first paragraph of Article 6 of the Information Crimes Act.
