Those freed include senior prince Walid bin Talal and other heads of large companies: it is unclear whether they handed over economic assets in exchange. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s arrests of hundreds of members of the business community, ruling Al Saud family and clerical establishment (three core constituencies) aimed to consolidate his grip on power and authority to force through far-reaching changes in his ‘Vision 2030’ economic plan.
Mohammed bin Salman’s succession to his father is likely to be smooth if it happens soon.
The Salman ruling family branch and its allies will take control of economic relations between the state and business community.
Some non-royal business leaders will be made an example of and stand trial for corruption.
Systemic and bureaucratic mid-level corruption will not be a major focus of the campaign.
The Saudi National Guard, controlled by a now-discredited family branch, is unlikely to resist upcoming restructuring.
