Saudi Court Sentences Migrant Worker to Death Over Facebook Comment

A Sri Lankan migrant worker in Saudi Arabia has reportedly been sentenced to death following an appeal over a Facebook comment. Sivarasa Anojan, who was working in Saudi Arabia, received this severe penalty after an earlier ruling had imposed a prison sentence and a substantial fine. This case highlights the serious consequences of online speech in certain jurisdictions and has prompted a response from the Sri Lankan government.

Background of the Case

The reported death sentence against Sivarasa Anojan came after an appellate court reviewed his case. Previously, a different ruling had ordered Anojan to serve five years in prison and pay a fine of SAR 3 million. The details of the original charge suggest the Facebook comment was considered insulting to the Prophet Muhammad. The appeal decision, issued on Thursday, September 18, 2026, resulted in the harsher penalty. Public accounts describe the death sentence as reported rather than officially confirmed, and it refers to the appellate decision, not an execution.

Sri Lankan Government’s Response

The reported ruling has put pressure on Sri Lanka’s government to act. Officials are consulting with Anojan’s family to understand the situation and explore potential avenues for intervention. The government is considering a two-pronged approach: pursuing legal options and seeking diplomatic clemency.

Nalinda Jayatissa, Sri Lanka’s Cabinet spokesman and Minister, stated that the government was discussing with Anojan’s family about filing a new appeal. Simultaneously, diplomatic channels are being explored, which could include requesting a royal pardon or a reduction of the sentence from Saudi authorities. These measures aim to address the appellate ruling through both legal and humanitarian means.

Parliamentary Action and Family Concerns

Adding to the pressure, a Sri Lankan lawmaker, Shanakiyan Rasamanickam, plans to bring the case before Parliament in the upcoming week. Rasamanickam has expressed concern over the Foreign Ministry’s handling of the matter and has called for immediate action to save Sivarasa Anojan’s life. His intention to raise the case in Parliament signals a desire for greater governmental attention and action.

Family accounts, published in Sinhala-language reporting, provide further details about the timeline and financial aspects of the case. According to these accounts, the appeal was filed on August 24, 2026. The family reportedly paid Rs. 1,890,766 into an account designated in the name of the Foreign Ministry secretary. However, relatives claim they did not receive the appeal letter until September 16, 2026, creating a delay that left them seeking urgent intervention. The family has made repeated efforts to get information about the case and its outcome, highlighting their distress and the urgency of the situation.

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