MBS takes on the role of Saudi prime minister, as the Al-Salman consolidate further

In a break from tradition, Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman (MBS) was named prime minister by his father King Salman Bin Abdelaziz on 27 September. GSN sources suggest the motivation is partly the monarch’s ailing health, which makes it increasingly difficult to fulfil his duties, but the move also reflects a desire to cement MBS’ power within the ruling Al-Saud family, in preparation for his eventual succession to the top job.