Views /Opinion

It is rare in politics for a king or president to cede his position to his deputy, especially in the Arab world, where the rulers’ slogan is: “We shall remain in power until death.”
In modern Arab history there have been just two instances of such a gesture, by Sewar Al Zahab of Sudan and Father Emir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani of Qatar.
The former ceded power as promised, and the second voluntarily and confidently handed over the reins to Heir Apparent H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The first fulfilled his promise, and the second was loyal to his country and his people and did what he thought was best for the future of Qatar.
A few days ago, Prince Muqrin bin Abdulaziz set a precedent that only people of his quality and mettle can. 
He gave up his position of crown prince in the largest and most important Arab and Islamic kingdom to the new crown prince, Muhammad bin Nayef.
When Prince Muqrin was appointed crown prince, I felt sorry for him. My feelings stemmed from my knowledge of his dedication, loyalty and penchant for hard work. 
I was also being a little selfish, as I was aware that the burden of his official duties would reduce our communication as friends.
I have known Prince Muqrin for about twenty years, and he has virtues that are rarely found in one person.
He was named the Prince of Hail after his retirement from the Saudi air force as a fighter pilot. He has also served as the Prince of the district of Medina, the director general of intelligence and as adviser to the late King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz. He then became the deputy crown prince and later crown prince after the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, acceded to the throne. He gave up his last post seeing that someone much younger would be able to perform his duties better than him.
However, the truth is that Prince Muqrin is no ordinary person; he has many talents and is very knowledgeable. He is a veritable walking encyclopaedia. He is fluent in more than one language, interested in astronomy, agriculture, marine life, the environment, technology, poetry, arts and culture, and reads voraciously about various topics. He sometimes surprises me after having read new books that have not yet reach library shelves. He acts spontaneously and with great humility.
I am probably among the few people who were not surprised when Prince Muqrin requested to be relieved of his post. He transcends any position and does not hesitate to take any decision that he sees as right, even if it means giving up the second most powerful post in Saudi Arabia.
Prince Muqrin’s gesture was appreciated by King Salman, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef and Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who visited him at his home in Riyadh to show their gratitude.
Only one who knows Prince Muqrin will understand this message of appreciation. His withdrawal from official duties does not mean his vast experience will not be utilised, The visits carried this message.
One of the many meanings of the word “Qarn,” from which the Prince’s name is derived, is the top of a mountain. 
Prince Muqrin is at the pinnacle of humility, good manners, ethics, dedication and integrity.
The author is an academician and a media person