Saudi royals could change line of succession

Amid outrage over the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, members of Saudi Arabia’s royal family could choose Prince Ahmed bin Abdulaziz as the next king instead of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman

Prince Ahmed bin Abdulaziz
(above) is King Salman’s only surviving full brother

1942: Prince Ahmed born in Riyadh province of Saudi Arabia, youngest son of King Abdulaziz Ibn Saud and favourite wife Hassa Al Sudairi

1953: Following King Abdulaziz’s death, young prince is raised by his mother and brothers

1968: Graduates with degree in political science from University of Southern California

1969-70: Serves as chairman of National Gypsum Company

1971: Appointed undersecretary and deputy governor of Makkah province by King Faisal

1975: Chosen by King Khalid for post of deputy minister of interior. Duties include overseeing special security force and introducing government reforms to Shia-majority eastern region during 1980s

2012: Takes on role of interior minister but retires after six months

2015: King Salman, aged 79, ascends to Saudi throne

2017: Prince Ahmed is one of only three people on Allegiance Council – body of senior royals – opposed to Mohammed bin Salman (left) being named as crown prince

Oct 2018: Heir to Saudi throne comes under increasing scrutiny following murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, leading to speculation that he could be replaced
  
Oct 30: Prince Ahmed returns to Saudi Arabia after lengthy absence abroad, to mount possible challenge to crown prince
    

Sources: House of Saud, Middle East Eye, Reuters Pictures: Associated Press © GRAPHIC NEWS