Saudi monarch’s death dominates social media in Jordan

AMMAN — The news of Saudi King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz’s death dominated the social media scene in Jordan over the weekend, with many Jordanians posting and commenting on the news on Twitter and Facebook.

Social media users voiced their sympathies and condolences to the Saudi people over the king’s death, which was announced in the early hours of Friday.

Facebook and Twitter users posted comments and pictures referring to the late king’s achievements and support for Arab and Muslim nations.

“He was a great leader. He was supportive of the causes of Arabs and Muslims. His achievements and development of Saudi Arabia are immense,” twitter user (@jotechie) commented over the weekend.

“Late Saudi king was a modest person. He died, was put in a simple white shroud and buried in an unmarked grave,” the twitter user said.

EssDee(@Shathvx) wrote: “Such a great leader, king and father! May his soul rest in peace.”

She tweeted a photo highlighting some of the late monarch’s achievements.

In nine years, the Saudi leader ordered the establishment of 28 universities, six medical cities, 32 public hospitals and 11 sports cities, according to the photo. 

Grieving for the loss of the Saudi king, Facebook users also expressed their sympathies to the Saudi people.

“I offer my condolences to all the brotherly Saudis and send my deepest sympathies for the loss of the King who wholeheartedly loved his people. He was a generous and kind person,” Hassoun Domi said in a comment on Facebook.

Nader Maaytah, another Facebook user, said all Jordanians are saddened by the news of the Saudi king’s death.

Other Facebook users posted news items and analyses on what the Saudi leader’s death means for the region and how newly proclaimed King Salman Bin Abdulaziz will deal with major issues facing the Gulf and the Middle East.

King Salman named his half-brother Muqrin as his crown prince and heir, according to Reuters.