In Saudi Arabia, activists push more boldly for reform

With a growing number of Saudi citizens calling for change, the kingdom is turning to old tactics to keep dissent at bay, banning protests, detaining some activists and blocking Web sites carrying petitions for reform.
The sharpest warnings came over the weekend, ahead of a "day of rage" called for Friday. The Interior Ministry said security services would prevent any attempt at disorder, and a government-backed council led by Saudi Arabia's top Muslim cleric issued a statement backing the protest ban.

But the signs of discontent that have emerged here in recent weeks have been notable for their boldness. Some activists say they hope that the uprisings that have toppled Arab leaders in Egypt and Tunisia and left others in the region imperiled will show ordinary Saudis that their royal family also must be held accountable.

For more: In Saudi Arabia, activists push more boldly for reform-washingtonpost